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WESLEY, HIS OWN HISTORIAN.
ILLUSTRATIONS OF HIS CtHARACTER, LABORS,
AND ACHIEVEMENTS.
FTR O  HIS O WNV  DIARIES.
BY REV. EDWIN L. JANES,
OF THE NEW YORK EAST ANNUAL CONFERENCE
Jw yo,
CARLTON & LANAHAN.
SAN FRANCISCO: E. THOMAS.
CINCINNATI: HITCHCOCK & WALDEN.
1870.




Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1871, by
CARLTON & LANAHAN,
in the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington.




PREFACE.
THE volume now offered to the Christian public has
this peculiarity: it allows Mr. Wesley to speak for himself. The entire volume, with the exception of a few preliminary and closing pages, consists of selections from
the third and fourth volumes of his Works, American
edition, comprising his journal from Oct. I4, I735, to
Oct 24, I79o, a period of more than half a century.
I have endeavored to make such selections as point
directly to some event in Mr. Wesley's life, some
trait in his character, some expression of his views,
or some achievement in his work. No one, we think,
can open this casket of jewels without being attracted
by their luster, and charmed with their beauty.
As the reader peruses these pages he will find the
extracts as so many index fingers pointing to the
faith, patience, charity, humility, gentleness, sympathy, sincerity, and devotion of this wonderful man.
His account of his marvelous labors, sufferings, and
successes, as presented in his own artless but nervous
and comprehensive style, will bring him before the
reader in his diversified work of preaching, visiting
the sick and dying, burying the dead, praying with
penitents, visiting the classes, examining and sifting
the societies, adjusting difficulties, harmonizing discordant elements, instructing his "assistants," abbreviating and translating useful books, preparing sermons for the press, and explaining and defending the




4                    Preface.
truths he taught: for although Mr. Wesley did not
love controversy, and sought to avoid it, yet when the
interests of evangelical truth required it he gathered
up the broken shafts that fell at his feet, and re-sharpened by his logical skill, hurled them  against his
enemies with fatal precision and force.
Probably no man ever had as many preaching places,
or as great a variety of hearers, as John Wesley;
but it made little difference to him whether he
preached on moor or mountain, in street or marketplace, in church or barn, in cathedral or cottage, in
parlor or poor-house, in jail or hospital, so long as he
could proclaim a free and full salvation to perishing
sinners.
The fires of his love and zeal burned as intensely,
and glowed as brightly when preaching to " a people
dead as stones," " a lifeless, noisy, glittering people,"
" a dull, rude, senseless multitude," " a wild, unbroken
herd," as when preaching to a "willing multitude,"
"a people all alive and ready to devour -the word,"
"a brilliant congregation."
Whether proclaiming Christ to the learned or
illiterate, rich or poor, Protestant or Papist, keelmen
or colliers to a score of hearers or a score of thousands
-this great evangelist seems to have been actuated
by the purest motives and most ardent zeal that can
possibly inspire the heart, or govern the life, of a
mortal.
These pages will show that the immediate effects
of Mr. Wesley's preaching were often surprising. On
some occasions " It was as though we were standing
before the great white throne;" at other times, " The
hearts of the hearers were as melting wax."




Preface.                 5
The reader's attention will also be arrested by his
remarkable power with God in prayer, especially when
pleading for the penitent and for despairing souls,
for the sick and afflicted, and for himself, when needing physical strength for the hour.
In the perusal of this volume the reader will not
fail to observe the many escapes of Mr. Wesley from
fire and flood, and from the dangers incident to
traveling, as well as from the plots and power of his
persecutors. His wonder will be excited by the
powers of endurance he exhibited in his unparalleled
labors, as also by his sudden recovery to health and
strength, his recuperative energies acting with almost
miraculous quickness.
He will be amazed at the magic influence this great
organizer and leader in the Church of'God wielded
over his preachers and hearers, and over infuriated
mobs, and he will be led to admire the courage and
wisdom displayed in the use of this power.
He will reach the conclusion that Mr. Wesley never
lost his self-possession or fortitude amid the exciting
and dangerous scenes through which he passed;
and that he literally carried out his inflexible purpose,
that, in spite of opposition and obstacles, he would
make no compromise with earthly powers or policy,
nor pause in his career, nor rest from his labors, till
dismissed from the field by his Divine Master.
All through the volume the reader will meet with
Mr. Wesley's pithy sayings, replete with truth and
common sense; with sharp criticisms on men and
books; and with many sentences marked with sprightliness, and at times with playfulness.
So vivid are the descriptions of the scenes through




6                   Preface.
which he passes in his travels and labors, that the
reader will seem to be one of his traveling companions,
listening to his pathetic and persuasive discourses,
rejoicing with him when " the power" descends upon
his congregations or pervades the love-feast, and
sharing in his triumph of soul when in some hardfought battle the enemy is conquered, and the standard of the cross planted.
We will only add, that where we have made one or
two selections as illustrating some fact in the history
or trait in the character of Mr. Wesley a score might
have been added, but this would have extended the
work to an undue size. We do not claim for this
volume that it gives a full and connected history of
this great reformer, but we think its contents will
impart much useful information, and lead the reader
to the resolve to be a more spiritual and active
Christian.
We trust that many will be so profited by this
stream from the fountain as to give the entire journals a thorough and prayerful perusal; and in doing
so they will doubtless coincide with the sentiment of
our great historian of Methodism, that "Wesley's
Journals are the most interesting productions of his
pen. They are the history of the man and of his
cause."  May we not also hope that this volume may
prove timely as affording a practical answer to the
great question of the day, "How shall we reach and
evangelize the masses? 
The contents of this book are placed in the chronological order in which they are found in the third
and fourth volumes of his Works, which will be a
sufficient guide for purposes of reference.   E. L. J.




WESLEY HIS OWN HISTORIAN.
Wesley's Parentage.
JOHN WESLEY was born in Epworth, Lincolnshire,
England, on the I4th of June, 1703. His father, Rev.
Samuel Wesley, was a minister of the Church of
England, and was a man of superior learning and of
stern integrity. His mother, Mrs. Susanna Wesley,
was the daughter of Dr. Samuel Annesley, and was
a woman " of extraordinary sense and piety."  "The
firm and manly character, the practical sense, the
active and unwearied habits of the'father, with the
calm, reflecting, and stable qualities of the mother,
were in particular inherited by John Wesley, and in
him were most happily blended."- Watson's Wesley,
chap. i.
His Early Education.
" Mrs. Wesley was the instructress of her children
in their early years. She was particularly led to interest herself in John, who, when about six years old,
had a providential and singular escape from being
burned to death upon the parsonage being consumed."
She considered this event as laying her under special
obligation " to be more particularly careful of the
soul of a child whom God had so mercifully provided
for." "The effect of this special care was, that, under




8           Wesley his Own Historian.      [1725.
the Divine blessing, he became early serious, for at
the age of eight years he was admitted by his father
to partake of the sacrament."
"In 1714 Wesley was placed at the Charter House,
where he was noticed for his diligence and progress
in learning, and he became a favorite with his master,
Dr. Walker, on account of his quietness, regularity,
and application."
Wesley Elected to Ohrist Church, Oxford.
"When he had attained his seventeeth year he
was elected to Christ Church, Oxford, where he pursued his studies to great advantage, under the direction of Dr. Wigham, a gentleman eminent for his
classical knowledge."
Mr. Wesley's natural temperament in his youth
was gay and sprightly, with a turn for wit and humor.
When he was about twenty-one years of age he appeared, as Mr. Babcock has observed, "-the very sensible and acute collegian, of the finest classical taste,
and of the most liberal and manly sentiments." His
perfect knowledge of the classics gave a smooth polish
to his wit, and an air of superior elegance to all his
compositions.
His Ordination, and Election as Fellow of Lincoln College.,
Wesley was ordained Deacon in Sept., I725, and
the year following was elected Fellow of Lincoln College. His previous seriousness had been the subject
of much banter and ridicule, and appears to have
been urged against him in his election by his opponents; but his reputation for learning and diligence,
and the excellence of his character, triumphed,




1729.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          9
Wesley's Literary Character Established in the University.
The following summer he spent in Lincolnshire
with his parents, and in September returned to Oxford and resumed his usual studies. His literary
character was now established in the University; he
was acknowledged by all parties to be a man of talent,
and an excellent critic in the learned languages.
His compositions were distinguished by an elegant
simplicity of style, and justness of thought, that
strongly marked the excellence of his classical taste.
Wesley's skill in logic, or the art of reasoning, was
universally known and admired. The high opinion
that was entertained of him in these respects was soon
publicly expressed by choosing him Greek Lecturer
and Moderator of the classes, on the seventh of November, though he had only been elected Fellow of
the College in March, when he was little more than
twenty-three years of age, and had not proceeded
Master of Arts. He took the degree in February,
1727; became his father's curate in August the same
year; returned to Oxford in 1728 to obtain Priests'
Orders, and paid another visit to Oxford in 1729, but
returned in about a month to Epworth.
Becomes Tutor in the College.
At the instance of Dr. Morley, the rector of his
college, he left his father's curacy, and in November
again settled in Oxford. He now obtained pupils and
became tutor in the college, presided as Moderator
in the disputations six times a week, and had the
chief direction of a religious society. From this time
he stood more prominently forward in his religious
character, and began more fiully to prove that they




Io         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I729.
that will live godly in Christ Jesus must suffer per-secution.- Watson's Wesley, chap. i.
Wesley's First Efforts at Religious Usefulness
In a letter addressed to Mr. Morgan, Sen., and
written in October, 1730, Mr. Wesley says: "In
November, I729, at which time I came to reside at
Oxford, your son, my brother, myself, and one more,
agreed to spend three or four evenings in a week
together. Our design was to read over the classics,
which we had before read in private on common
nights, and on Sunday some book in divinity. In the
summer following Mr.  told me he had called at
the jail, to see a man who was condemned for killing
his wife; and that, from the talk he had with one of
the debtors, he verily believed it would do much good,
if any one would be at the pains of now and then
speaking with them. This he so frequently repeated,
that on the 24th of August, I730, my brother and I
walked with him to the castle. We were so well satisfied with our conversation there that we agreed to go
thither once or twice a week, which we had not done
long before he desired me to go with him to see a
poor woman in the town who was sick. In this employment too, when we came to reflect upon it, we
believed it would be worth while to spend an hour or
two in a week, provided the minister of the parish,
in which any such person was, were not against it."
Wesley Consults his Father.
"But, that we might not depend wholly on our own
judgments, I wrote an account to my father of our
whole design; withal begging that he, who had lived
seventy years in the world, and seen as much of it as




I 730.1     Wesley his Own Historian.         I r
most private men have ever done, would advise us
whether we had yet gone too far, and whether we
should now stand still or go forward."
Part of his' father's answer, dated Sept. 2I, 1730,
was this: "And now as to your own designs and
employments, what can I say less of them than Valde
probo;, and that I have the highest reason to bless
God that he has given me two sons together at Oxford, to whom he has given grace and courage to turn
the war against the world and the devil, which is the
best way to conquer them. They have but one more
enemy to combat with, the flesh; which, if they take
care to subdue by fasting and prayer, there will be no
more for them to do, but to proceed steadily in the
same course, and expect' the crown which fadeth not
away.' You have reason to bless God, as I do, that
you have so fast a friend as Mr. M., who, I see, in the
most difficult service, is ready to break the ice for
you. You do not know of how much good that poor
wretch who killed his wife has been the providential
occasion.  I think I must adopt Mr. M. to be my son,
together with you and your brother Charles; and
when I have such a ternion to prosecute that war,
wherein I am now emiles emeritus,t I shall not be
ashamed when they speak with their enemies in the
gate."
The Holy Club.
In a letter to "a clergyman of known wisdom and
integrity," after describing the plans of usefulness and
piety'he and his friends had formed, Mr. Wesley says:
"Almost as soon as we had made our first attempts
this way, some of the men of wit in Christ Church
* I greatly approve.  t A soldier past service.




12         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I735.
entered the lists against us; and, between mirth and
anger, made a pretty many reflections upon the Sacramentarians, as they were pleased to call us. Soon
after their allies at Merton changed our title, and did
us the honor of styling us, The Holy Club."
Wesley Sails to America —Motive.
Tuesday, Oct. I4, I735. Mr. Benjamin Ingham,
of Queen's College, Oxford, Mr. Charles Delamotte,
son'of a merchant in London, who had offered himself some days before, my brother Charles Wesley,
and myself, took boat for Gravesend, in order to
embark for Georgia. Our end in leaving our native
country was not to avoid want, (God having given us
plenty of temporal blessings,) nor to gain the dung
or dross of riches or honor; but singly this -to save
our souls; to live wholly to the glory of God. In
the afternoon we found the Simmons off Gravesend,
and immediately went on board.
How Employed on Shipboard.
Tuesday, Oct. 21. We sailed from  Gravesend.
When we were past about half the Goodwin Sands
the wind suddenly failed.  Had the calm continued
till ebb, the ship had probably been lost. But the
gale sprung up again in an hour, and carried us into
the Downs.
We now began to be a little regular. Our common
way of living was this: From four in the morning
till five, each of us used private prayer. From five
to seven we read the Bible together, carefully comparing it (that we might not lean to our own understandings) with the writings of the earliest ages. At




173-5.]    Wesley his Own Historian.
seven we breakfasted. At eight were the public
prayers. From nine to twelve I usually learned
German, and Mr. Delamotte, Greek. My brother
writ sermons, and Mr. Ingham instructed the children. At twelve we met to give an account to one
another of what we had done since our last meeting,
and what we designed to do before our next. About
one we dined. The time from dinner to four we
spent in reading to those whom each of us had
taken in charge, or in speaking to them severally, as
need required.  At four were the evening prayers;
when either the Second Lesson was explained, (as it
was always in the morning,) or the children were
catechised, and instructed before the congregation.
From five to six we again used private prayer.
From six to seven I read in our cabin to two or three
of the passengers, (of whom there were about eighty
English on board,) and each of my brethren to a few
more in theirs. At seven I joined with the Germans in their public service; while Mr. Ingham
was reading between the decks to as many as desired
to hear. At eight we met again, to exhort and instruct one another. Between nine and ten we went
to bed, where neither the roaring of the sea nor the
motion of the ship could take away the refreshing
sleep which God gave us.
Wesley Unwilling to Die.
Sunday, Nov. 23. At night I was waked by the
tossing of the ship and roaring of the wind, and
plainly showed I was unfit, for I was unwilling, to
die.




14         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I736.
Storms at Sea.
Saturday, yan. I7, 1736. Many people were very
impatient at the contrary wind. At seven in the
evening they were quieted by a storm. It rose higher
and higher till nine. About nine the sea broke over
us from stem to stern; burst through the windows
of the state cabin, where three or four of us were, and
covered us all over, though a bureau sheltered me
from the main shock. About eleven I lay down in
the great cabin, and in a short time fell asleep, though
very uncertain whether I should wake alive, and
much ashamed of my unwillingness to die. O how
pure in heart must he- be who would rejoice to appear
before God at a moment's warning! Toward morning, " He rebuked the winds and the sea, and there
was a great calm."
F; iday, ~an. 23. In the evening another storm began.
In the morning it increased, so that they were forced
to let the ship drive. I could not but say to myself,
"How is it that thou hast no faith?" being still unwilling to die. About one in the afternoon, almost
as soon as I had stepped out of the great cabin door,
the sea did not break as usual, but came with a full
smooth tide over the side of the ship. I was vaulted
over with water in a moment, and so stunned that I
scarce expected to lift my head again till the sea
should give up her dead. But, thanks be to God! I
received no hurt at all. About midnight the storm
ceased.
Sunday, 7an. 25. At noon our third storm began.
At four it was more violent than before. Now, indeed, we could say, "The waves of the sea" were
mighty, and raged " horribly." They rose up to the




1736.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       IS 
heavens above, and" clave "down to hell beneath."
The winds roared round about us, and (what I never
heard before) whistled as distinctly as if it had been
a human voice. The ship not only rocked to and fro
with the utmost violence, but shook and jarred with
so unequal, grating a motion, that one could not but
with great difficulty keep one's hold of any thing, nor
stand a moment without it. Every ten minutes came
a shock against the stern or side of the ship, which
one would think should dash the planks in pieces.
At this time a child, privately baptized before, was
brought to be received into the Church. It put me
in mind of Jeremiah's buying the field, when the
Chaldeans were oh the point of destroying Jerusalem, and seemed a pledge of the mercy God designed
to show us, even in the land of the living.
We spent two or three hours after prayers in conversing suitably to the occasion, confirming one another in a calm submission to the wise, holy, gracious
will of God. And now a storm did not appear so terrible as before. Blessed be the God of all consolation!
At seven I went to the Germans. I had long before observed the great seriousness of their behavior.
Of their humility they had given a continual proof,
by performing those servile offices for the other passengers which none of the English would undertake;
for which they desired, and would receive, no pay, saying, " It was good for their proud hearts," and " their
loving Saviour had done more for them." And every
day had given them occasion of showing a meekness
which no injury could move. If they were pushed,
struck, or thrown down, they rose again and went
away; but no complaint was found in their mouth.




I6         TWesley his Own Historian.     [I736.
There was now an opportunity of trying whether they
were delivered from the spirit of fear, as well as from
that of pride, anger, and revenge. In the midst of
the psalm wherewith their service began, the sea broke
over, split the mainsail in pieces, covered the ship,
and poured in between the decks, as if the great deep
had already swallowed us up. A terrible screaming
began among the English. The Germans calmly
sung on. I asked one of them afterward, "Was you
not afraid?"  He answered, "I thank God, no."  I
asked, "But were not your women and children
afraid?"  He replied mildly, "No; our women and
children are not afraid to die."
Devotions on the American Shore.
Friday, Feb. 6. About eight in the morning, we
first set foot on American ground. It was a small
uninhabited island over against Tybee. Mr. Oglethorpe led us to a rising ground, where we all kneeled
down to give thanks. He then took boat for Savannah. When the rest of the people were come on
shore, we called our little flock together to prayers.
Several parts of the Second Lesson (Mark vi,) were
wonderfully suited to the occasion; in particular,
our Lord's directions to the first preachers of his
Gospel, and their toiling at sea, and deliverance;
with these comfortable words, " It is I, be not afraid."
Wesley's Interview with Mr. Spangenberg.
Saturday, Feb. 7. Mr. Oglethorpe returned from
Savannah with Mr. Spangenberg, one of the pastors
of the Germans. I soon found what spirit he was




I736.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        I7
of, and asked his advice with regard to my own
conduct. He said, "My brother, I must first ask
you one or two questions.  Have you the witness
within yourself? Does the Spirit of God bear witness with your spirit that you are a child of God?"
I was surprised, and knew not what to answer. He
observed it, and asked, " Do you know Jesus Christ?"
I paused, and said, "I know he is the Saviour of the
world."  "True," replied he; "but do you know he
has saved you?"  I answered, "I hope he has died
to save me." He only added, "Do you know yourself?" I said, " I do." But I fear they were vain words.
Disappointed that he cannot Preach to the Indians.
Tuesday, Nov. 23. Mr. Oglethorpe sailed for England, leaving Mr. Ingham, Mr. Delamotte, and me,
at Savannah, but with less prospect of preaching to
the Indians than we had the first day we set foot in
America. Whenever I mentioned it, it was immediately replied, "You cannot leave Savannah without
a minister."  To this, indeed, my plain answer
was, "I know not that I am under any obligation to
the contrary. I never promised to stay here one
month. I openly declared both before, at, and ever
since my coming hither, that I neither would nor
could take charge of the English any longer than
till I could go among the Indians."  If it was said,
"But did not the Trustees of Georgia appoint you to
be minister at Savannah?" I replied, "They did, but
it was not done -by my solicitation; it was done without either my desire or knowledge.  Therefore, I
cannot conceive that appointment to lay me under
any obligation of continuing there any longer than
2




I 8       Wesley his Ozuwn Historian.   [I737-8.
till a door is opened to the heathens, and this I expressly declared at the time I consented to accept of
that appointment."  But though I had no other
obligation not to leave Savannah now, yet that of
love I could not break through; I could not resist
the importunate request of the more serious parishioners " to watch over their souls yet a little longer,
till some one came who might supply my place."
And this I the more willingly did, because the time
was not come to preach the Gospel of peace to the
heathens; all their nations being in a ferment; and
Paustoobee and Mingo Mattaw having told me, in
terms, in my own house, "Now our enemies are all
about us, and we can do nothing but fight; but if
the beloved ones should ever give us to be at peace,
then we would hear the great word."
Reasons for Wesley's Return to England.
Oct. 7. I consulted my friends, whether God did
not call me to return to England?i The reason for
which I left it had now no force, there being no possibility as yet of instructing the Indians; neither
had I as yet found or heard of any Indians on the
continent of America who had the least desire of
being instructed.
Wesley takes Leave of America.
Thursday, yan. 22, I738. I took leave of America,
(though, if it please God, not forever,) going on board
the, Samuel, Captain Percy, with a young gentleman
who had been a few months in Carolina, one of my
parishioners of Savannah, and a Frenchman, late of
Purrysburgh, who was escaped thence with the skin
of his teeth.




17388.]     Wesley his Own Historian..        I9.
Reflections'on Landing in England.
Feb. I7. It is now two years and almost four months
since I left my native country, in order to teach the
Georgian Indians the nature of Christianity; but
what have I learned myself in the meantime? Why,
(what I the least of all suspected,) that I, who
went to America to convert others, was never myself converted to God.  (I am  not sure of this.)
"I am not mad," though I thus speak; but " I speak
the words of truth and soberness;" if haply some of
those who still dream may awake, and see that as I
am so are they.
Are they read in philosophy? So was I. In- ancient or modern tongues? So was I also. Are they
versed in the science of divinity? I too have studied
it many years.  Can they talk fluently upon spiritual
things? The very same could I do. Are they plenteous in alms? Behold, I gave all my goods to feed
the poor. Do they give of their labor as well as of
their substance? I have labored more abundantly
than they all. Are they willing to suffer for their
brethren? I have thrown up my friends, reputation,
ease, country; I have put my life in my hand, wandering into strange lands; I have given my body to
be devoured by the deep, parched up with heat, consumed by toil and weariness, or whatsoever God should
please to bring upon me. But does all this (be it
more or less, it matters not) make me acceptable to
God? Does all I ever did or can know, say, give,
do, or suffer, justify me in his sight? Yea, or'the
constant use-of all the means of grace? (which, nevertheless, is meet, right, and our bounden duty.) Or




20          Wesley his Own Historian.      [I738.
that I know nothing of myself; that I am, as touching outward, moral righteousness, blameless? Or
(to come closer yet) the having a rational conviction
of all the truths of Christianity? )Does all this give
me a claim to the holy, heavenly, divine character of
a Christian? By no means. If the oracles of God
are true, if we are still to abide by "the law and the
testimony," all these things, though, when ennobled
by faith in Christ,* they are holy and just and good,
yet without it are "dung and dross," meet only to
be purged away by "the fire that never shall be
quenched."
This, then, have I learned in the ends of the earth
-that I "am fallen short of the glory of God;" that
my whole heart is "altogether corrupt and abominable, and, consequently, my whole life; (seeing it cannot be that an "evil tree" should "bring forth good
fruit;") that "alienated" as I am "from the life of
God," I am " a child of wrath," t an heir of hell; that
my own works, my own sufferings, my own righteousness, are so far from reconciling me to an offended
God —so far from making any atonement for the least
of those sins which are more in number than the
hairs of my head-that the most specious of them
need an atonement themselves, or they cannot abide
his righteous judgment; that having "the sentence
of death" in my heart, and having nothing in or of
myself to plead, I have no hope but that of being
justified freely, "through the redemption that is in
Jesus."4 I have no hope but that if I seek I shall
find Christ, and "be found in him, not having my
* I had even then the faith of a servant, though not of a son.
t I believe not.




1738.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       2I
own righteousness, but that which is through the
faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by
faith." Phil. iii, 9.
Results to Wesley of his Visit to America.
Feb. In the evening I came once more to London, whence I had been absent two years and near
four months. Many reasons I have to bless God,
though the design I went upon did not take effect,
for my having been carried into that strange land,
contrary to all my preceding resolutions. Hereby I
trust he hath in some measure "humbled me, and
proved me, and shown me what was in my heart."
Hereby I. have been taught to "beware of men'
hereby I am come to know assuredly that if "in all
our ways we acknowledge God" he will, where reason fails, "direct our path" by lot, or by the other
means which he knoweth. Hereby I am delivered
from the fear of the sea, which I had both dreaded
and abhorred from my youth.
Hereby God has given me to know many of his
servants, particularly those of the Church of Hernhuth. Hereby my passage is opened to the writings
of holy men in the German, Spanish, and Italian
tongues. I hope, too, some good may come to others
hereby. All in Georgia have heard the word of God.
Some have believed, and began to run well. A few
steps have been taken toward publishing the glad
tidings both to the African and American heathens.
Many children have learned "how they ought to
serve God," and to be useful to their neighbor. And
those whom it most concerns have an opportunity of




722         W-esley his Own Historian.   [I 83s8.
knowing the true state of their infant colony, and
laying a firmer foundation of peace and happiness
to many generations.
Wesley's first Interview with Peter Bohler.
Tuesday, Feb. 7. (A day much to be remembered.)
At the house of Mr. Weinantz, a Dutch merchant, I
met Peter Bohler, Schulius Richter, and Wensel
Neiser, just then landed from Germany. Finding
they had no acquaintance in England, I offered to
procure them a lodging, and did so, near Mr. Hutton's, where I then was. And from this time I did
not willingly lose any opportunity of conversing with
them while I stayed in London.
Impressed to leave off Preaching.
Saturday, Maich 4. I found my brother at Oxford,
recovering from his pleurisy, and with him Peter
Bohler, by whom (in the hand of the great God) I
was, on Sunday the 5th, clearly convinced of unbelief-of the want of that faith whereby alone we are
saved. (With the full Christian salvation.) Immediately it struck into my mind, " Leave off preaching.
How can you preach to others, who have not faith
yourself?" I asked Bohler whether he thought I
should leave it off or not. He answered, "By no
means."  I asked, "But what can I preach?"  He
said, " Preach faith till you have it, and then, because
you have it, you will preach faith."
Monday, March 6. I began preaching this new
doctrine, though my soul started back from the work.
The first person to whom I offered salvation by faith
alone was a prisoner under sentence of death. His




I738.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        23
name was Clifford. Peter Bohler had many times
desired me to speak to him before; but I could not
prevail on myself so to do, being still (as I had been
many years) a zealous assertor of the impossibility
of a death-bed repentance.
The Fruits of Living Faith.
Thursday, March 23. I met Peter Bohler again,
who now amazed me more and more by the account
he gave of the fruits of living faith, the holiness and
happiness which he affirmed to attend it. The next
morning I began the Greek Testament again,'resolving to abide by "the law and the testimony;" and
being confident that God would hereby show me
whether this doctrine was of God.
Conversion of a Condemned Criminal.
Monday, March 27. Mr. Kinchin went with me to
the Castle, where, after reading prayers, and preaching on "It is appointed unto men once to die," we
prayed with the condemned man, first in several
forms of prayer, and then in such words as were
given us in that hour. He kneeled down in much
heaviness and confusion, having "no rest in" his
"bones, by reason of" his "sins."  After a space he
rose up, and eagerly said, "I am now ready to die.
I know Christ has taken away my sins, and there is
no more condemnation for me." The same composed
cheerfulness he showed when he was carried to execution; and in his last moments he was the same,
enjoying a perfect peace, in confidence that he was
"accepted in the Beloved."




24          Wesley his Own Historian.       [I738.
Wesley breaks away from Forms of Prayer.
Saturday, April I. Being at Mr. Fox's society, my
heart was so full that I could not confine myself to
the forms of prayer which we were accustomed to use
there. Neither do I propose to be confined to them
any more; but to pray indifferently, with a' form or
without, as I may find suitable to particular occasions.
Ten Years' Struggle between Nature and Grace.
May. All the time I was at Savannah I was beating the air. Being ignorant of the righteousness
of Christ, which, by a living faith in him, bringeth
salvation " to every one that believeth," I sought to
establish my own righteousness, and so labored in
the fire all my days. I was now properly " under the
law;" I knew that "the law" of God was "spiritual; I consented to it, that it was good."  Yea, "I
delighted in it, after the inner man." Yet was I
"carnal, sold under sin."  Every day was I constrained to cry out, " What I do, I allow not: for
what I would, I do not; but what I hate that I do.
To will is " indeed "present with me; but how to
perform that which is good I find not. For the good
which I would, I do not; but the evil which I would
not, that I do. I find a law, that when I would do
good, evil is present with me:" even "the law
in my members, warring against the law of my
mind," and still "bringing me into captivity to the
law of sin."
In this vile, abject state of bondage to sin I was
indeed fighting continually, but not conquering. Before, I had willingly served sin; now it was unwill



I738.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          25
ingly; but still I served it. I fell, and rose, and fell
again. Sometimes I was overcome, and in heaviness:
sometimes I overcame, and was in joy. For as in
the former state I had some foretastes of the terrors
of the law, so had I in this of the comforts of the
Gospel. During this whole struggle between nature
and grace, which had now continued above ten years,
I had many remarkable returns to prayer, especially
when I was in trouble; I had many sensible comforts; which are indeed no other than short anticipations of the life of faith. But I was still " under the
law," not "under grace:" (the state most who are
called Christians are content to live and die in:) for
I was only striving with, not freed from, sin; neither
had I the witness of the Spirit with my spirit, and
indeed could not; for I " sought it not by faith, but,
as it were, by the works of the law."
On my return to England, January, 1738, being in
imminent danger of death, and very uneasy on that
account, I was strongly convinced that the cause of
that uneasiness was unbelief, and that the gaining a
true living faith was the "one thing needful" for me.
But still I fixed not this faith on its right object: I
meant only faith in God, and faith in or through
Christ. Again, I knew not that I was wholly void
of this faith; but only thought I had not enough of
it. So that when Peter Bohler, whom Godiprepared
for me as soon as I came to London, affirmed of true
faith in Christ, (which is but one,) that it had those
two fruits inseparably attending it, "Dominion over
sin, and constant peace from a sense of forgiveness,"
I was quite amazed, and looked upon it as a new
Gospel. If this was so, it was clear I had not faith.




26          Wesley his Own Historian.      [1738.
But I was not willing to be convinced of this. Therefore, I disputed with all my might, and labored to
prove that faith might be where these were not;
especially where the sense of forgiveness was not;
for all the Scriptures relating to this I had been long
since taught to construe away; and to call all Presbyterians who spoke otherwise. Besides, I well saw
no one could, in the nature of things, have such a
sense of forgiveness and not feel it. But I felt it
not. If, then, there was no faith without this, all my
pretensions to faith dropped at once.
When I met Peter Bohler again, he consented to
put the dispute upon the issue which I desired,
namely, Scripture and experience. I first consulted
the Scripture. But when I set aside the glosses of
men, and simply considered the words of God, comparing them together, endeavoring to illustrate the
obscure by the plainer passages, I found they all
made against me, and was forced to retreat to my last
hold, "that experience would never agree with the
literal interpretation of those Scriptures. Nor could
I therefore allow it to be true, till I found some living
witnesses of it."  He replied, he could show me such
at any time;; if I desired it, the next day. And
accordingly, the next day he came again with three
others, all of whom testified, of their own personal
experience, that a true living faith in Christ is inseparable from a sense of pardon for all past, and freedom
from all present, sins. They added with one mouth,
that this faith was the gift, the free gift of God; and
that he would surely bestow it upon every soul who
earnestly and perseveringly sought it. I'was'now
thoroughly convinced; and by the grace of God I




I738.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         27
resolved to seek it unto the end, I. By absolutely
renouncing all dependence, in whole or in part, upon
my own works or righteousness; on which I had
really grounded my hope of salvation, though I knew
it not, from my youth up. 2. By adding to the constant use of all the other means of grace continual
prayer for this very thing, justifying, saving faith, a
full reliance on the blood of Christ shed for  me; a
trust in him, as tmy Christ, as amy sole justification,
sanctification, and redemption.
His Oonversion,
May. I continued thus to seek it, (though with
strange indifference, dullness, and coldness, and unusually frequent relapses into sin,) till Wednesday,
May 24. I think it was about five this morning that
I opened my Testament on those words, Ta peyt;-a,vicat -rta e7rTTayYeUtaa &&epnIrTaL, tva yevagOe 0etag
cotv(,)vot voeo6w: "There are given unto us exceeding
great and precious promises, even that ye should be
partakers of the Divine nature." 2 Pet. i, 4. Just as
I went out, I opened it again on those words, "Thou
art not far from the kingdom of God." In the afternoon I was asked to go to St. Paul's. The anthem
was, "Out of the deep have I called unto thee, O
Lord: Lord, hear my voice. O let thine ears consider well the voice of my complaint. If thou, Lord,
wilt be extreme to mark what is done amiss, O Lord,
who may abide it? For there is mercy with thee;
therefore shalt thou be feared. O Israel, trust in the
Lord: for with the Lord there is mercy, and with
him is plenteous redemption. And he shall redeem
Israel from all his sins."




28'Wesley his Own Historian.     [1738.
In the evening I went, very unwillingly, to a society
in Aldersgate-street, where one was reading Luther's
preface to the Epistle to the Romans. About a
quarter before nine, while he was describing the
change which God works in the heart through faith
in Christ, I felt my heart strangely warmed. I felt I
did trust in Christ, Christ alone, for salvation; and an
assurance was given me that he had taken away my
sins, even mine, and saved me from the law of sin and
death.
Wesley Visits Germany.
Wednesday, i5ane 7. I determined, if God should
permit, to retire for a short time into Germany. I
had fully proposed, before I left Georgia, so to do if it
should please God to bring me back to Europe. And
I now clearly saw the time was come. My weak mind
could not bear to be thus sawn asunder. And I
hoped the conversing with those holy men who were
themselves living witnesses of the full power of faith,
and yet able to bear with those that are weak, would
be a means, under God, of so establishing my soul
that I might go on from faith to faith, and "from
strength to strength."
Meets with Living Proofs of the Power of Faith.
suly 6. I lodged with one of the brethren at Eckershausen, an English mile from Marienborn, where I
usually spent the day, chiefly in conversing with
those who could speak either Latin or English; not
being able, for want of more practice, to speak German readily. And here I continually met with what
I sought for, namely, living proofs of the power of
faith; persons saved from inward as well as outward




1738.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          29
sin, by "the love of God shed abroad in their hearts; "
and from all doubt and fear, by the abiding witness
of "the Holy Ghost given unto them."
Count Zinzendorfs and Bohlers Views of Justification.
Sunday,;ully 9. The Count preached in the old
castle at Runneberg, (about three English miles from
Marienborn,) where is also a small company of those
who seek the Lord Jesus in sincerity. Wednesday, I2,
was one of the conferences for strangers; where one
of Frankfort proposing the question, Can a man be
justified and not know it? the Count spoke largely
and scripturally upon it, to this effect:
I. Justification is the forgiveness of sins.
2. The moment a man flies to Christ he is justified;
3. And has peace with God; but not always joy:
4. Nor perhaps may he know he is justified till
long after.
5. For the assurance of it is distinct from justification itself.
6. But others may know he is justified by his power
over sin, by his seriousness, his love of the brethren,
and his "hunger and thirst after righteousness,"
which alone prove the spiritual life to be begun.
7. To be justified is the same thing as to be born
of God. (Not so.)
8. When a man is awakened, he is begotten of
God, and his fear and sorrow, and sense of the wrath
of God, are the pangs of the new birth.
I then recollected what Peter Bohler had often said
upon this head, which was to this effect:
I. When a man has living faith in Christ, then is
he justified:




30          Wesley his Own. Historian.    [1738.
2. This is always given in, a moment;
3. And in that moment he has peace with God;
4. Which he cannot have without knowing that he
has it:
5. And being born of God, he sinneth not:
6. Which deliverance from sin he cannot have without knowing that he has it.
Wesley's description of Hernhuth, the Home of the Moravians,
Tuesday, A.ug. I. At three' in the afternoon I came
to Hernhuth, about thirty English miles from Dresden. It lies in Upper Lusatia, on the border of Bohemia, and contains about a hundred houses, built on
a rising ground, with evergreen woods on two sides,
gardens and cornfields on the others, and high hills
at a small distance. It has one long street, through
which the great road from Zittau to L6bau goes.
Fronting the middle of this street is the Orphan
House; in the lower part of which is the apothecary's shop, in the upper, the chapel, capable of containing six or seven hundred people. Another row of
houses runs at a small distance from either end of the
Orphan House, which accordingly divides the rest
of the town (besides the long street) into two squares.
At the east end of it is the Count's house; a small,
plain building like the rest; having a large garden
behind it, well laid out, not for show, but for the use
of the community.
Mode of Worship in a Lutheran Church,
Sunday, Aug. 6. We went to church at Bertholdsdorf, a Lutheran village about an English mile from
Hernhuth. Two large candles stood lighted upon




I758.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        3X
the altar: the last supper was painted behind it; the
pulpit was placed over it; and over that a brass
image of Christ on the cross.
The minister had on a sort of pudding sleeve gown,
which covered him all round. At nine began a long
voluntary on the organ, closed with a hymn, which
was sung by all the people sitting; in which posture,
as is the German custom, they sung all that followed.
Then the minister walked up to the altar, bowed,
sung these Latin words, " Gloria in excelsis Deo,"
bowed again, and went away. This was followed by
another hymn, sung, as before, to the organ, by all
the people. Then the minister went to the altar
again, bowed, sung a prayer, read the epistle, and
went away. After a third hymn was sung, he went
a third time to the altar, sung a versicle, (to which all
the people sung aresponse,) read the third chapter to
the Romans, and went away. The people having then
sung the creed in rhyme, he came and read the gospel, all standing. Another hymn followed, which
being ended, the minister in the pulpit used a long
extemporary prayer, and afterward preached an hour
and a quarter on a verse of the gospel. Then he
read a long intercession and general thanksgiving,
which, before twelve, concluded the service.
After the evening service at Hernhuth was ended
all the unmarried men (as is their custom) walked
quite round the town, singing praise with instruments
of music; and then, on a small hill at a little distance
from it, casting themselves into a ring, joined in
prayer. Thence they returned into the great Square,
and a little after eleven, commended each other to
God.




32          Wesley his Own Historian.     [r738.
Wesley's return to England.
September. The ship lingering still, I had time to
exhort several English, whom we met with at our
inn, to pursue inward religion; the renewal of their
souls in righteousness and true holiness. In the
morning a daughter of affliction came to see me, who
teaches a school at Rotterdam. She had been for
some time under deep convictions, but could find
none to instruct or comfort her. After much conversation we joined in prayer, and her spirit a little revived. Between nine and ten we went on board. In
the afternoon I read prayers, and preached in the
great cabin. The wind being contrary, we did not
get out of the river till Wednesday, nor to London
till Saturday night.
He Renews his Labors,
Sunday, Sept. 17. I began again to declare in my
own country the glad tidings of salvation, preaching
three times, and afterward expounding the Holy
Scripture to a large company in the Minories.  On
IMonday I rejoiced to meet with our little society,
which now consisted of thirty-two persons. The next
day I went to the condemned felons, in Newgate, and
offered them free salvation. In the evening I went
to a society in Bear-yard, and preached repentance
and remission of sins. The next evening I spoke the
truth in love at a society in Aldersgate-street: some
contradicted at first, but not long; so that nothing
but love appeared at our parting.
Th ursday, Sept. 21. I went to a society in Gutterlane, but I could not declare the mighty works of
God there, as I did afterward at the Savoy in all




I738-39.]   Wesley his Own HIisto ian.       33
simplicity. And the word did not return empty.
Finding abundance of people greatly exasperated by
gross misrepresentations of the words I had spoken,
I went to as many of them in private as my time
would permit. God gave me much love toward them
all. Some were convinced that they had been mistaken. And who knoweth but God will soon return
to the rest, and leave a blessing behind him?
Saturday, Sept. 23. 1 was enabled to speak strong
words both at Newgate and at Mr. E.'s society; and
the next day at St. Anne's, and twice at St. John's,
Clerkenwell; so that I fear they will bear me there
no longer.
Tuesday, Sept. 26. I declared the Gospel of peace
to a small company at Windsor.
Additional Labors among Prisons and Paupers.
Sunday, Dec. 3. I began reading prayers at Bocardo,
(the city prison,) which had been long discontinued.
Tuesday, Dec. 5. I began reading prayers, and
preaching, in Gloucester Green work-house; and on
Thursday, in that belonging to St. Thomas's parish.
On both days I preached at the Castle.
A Glorious Love-Feast.
MVonday, yan. I, 1739. Messrs. Hall, Kinchin, Ingham, Whitefield, Hotchins, and my brother Charles
were present at our love-feast in Fetter-lane, with
about sixty of our brethren. About three in the morning, as we were continuing instant in prayer, the power
of God came mightily upon us, insomuch that many
cried out for exceeding joy, and many fell to the
ground. As soon as we were recovered a little from the.3




34          Wesley his Own Historian.      [1739.
awe and amazement at the presence of His Majesty,
we broke out with one voice, "We praise thee, O
God, we acknowledge thee to be the Lord."
Bleeding and Blistering no Cure for a Wounded Spirit,
Sunday, Yan. 2I. We were surprised in the evening, while I was expounding in the Mlinories. A
well-dressed, middle-aged woman, suddenly cried out
as in the agonies of death. She continued so to do
for some time, with all the signs of the sharpest anguish of spirit. When she was a little recovered, I
desired her to call upon me the next day. She then
told me, that about three years before she was under
strong conviction of sin, and in such terror of mind
that she had no comfort in any thing, nor any rest,
day or night; that she sent for the minister of her
parish, and told him the distress she was in: upon
which he told her husband she was stark mad, and
advised him to send for a physician immediately. A
physician was sent for accordingly, who ordered her
to be blooded, blistered, and so on. But this did not
heal her wounded spirit, so that she continued much
as she was before; till the last night, He whose word
she at first found to be " sharper than any two-edged
sword " gave her a faint hope that he would undertake her cause, and heal the soul which had sinned
against him.
A Quiok Conversion at Oxford.
Friday, March 2. It was the advice of all -our brethren that I should spend a few days at Oxford, whither
I accordingly went on Saturday 3d. A few names I
found here, also, who had not denied the faith, neither
been ashamed of their Lord, even in the midst of a




1739.]    -Wesley his Own Historian.        35
perverse generation. And every day we were together we had convincing proof, such as it had not
before entered into our hearts to conceive, that " He
is able to save unto the uttermost all that come to
God through him."
One of the most surprising instances of his power
which I ever remember to have seen was on -the
Tuesday following, when I visited one who was above
measure enraged at this new way, and zealous in opposing it. Finding argument to be of no other effect
than to inflame her more and more, I broke off the
dispute, and desired we might join in prayer, which
-she so far consented to as to kneel down. In a few
minutes she fell into an extreme agony, both of body
and soul; and soon after cried out with the utmost
earnestness, "Now I know I am forgiven for Christ's
sake." Many other words she uttered to the same
effect, witnessing:a hope full of immortality. And
from that hour, God hath set her face as a flint to
declare the faith which before she persecuted.
Mr. Wesley's first Field Preaching.
Thursday, March 29. I left London, and in the
evening expounded to a small company at Basingstoke.
Saturday, 3 I. In the evening I reached Bristol, and
met Mr. Whitefield there. I could scarce reconcile
myself at first to this strange way of preaching in the
fields, of which he set me an example on Sunday;
having been all my life (till very lately) so tenacious
of every point relating to decency and order, that I
should have thought the saving of souls almost a sin
if it had not been done in a church.
April I. In the evening (Mr. Whitefield being gone)




36         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I739.
I begun expounding our Lord's sermon on the mount,
(one pretty remarkable precedent of field preaching,
though I suppose there were churches at that time
also) to a little society which was accustomed to
meet once or twice a week in Nicholas-street.
Monday, 2. At four in the afternoon I submitted to
be more vile, and proclaimed in the highways the
glad tidings of salvation, speaking from a little eminence in the ground adjoining to the city to about
three thousand people. The Scripture on which I
spoke was this, (is it possible that any one should be
ignorant that it is fulfilled in every true minister of
Christ?)' The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the Gospel to
the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted,
to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering
of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are
bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord."
At seven I began expounding the Acts of the Apostles to a society meeting in Baldwin-street, and the
next day the Gospel of St. John in the chapel at
Newgate, where I also daily read the morning service
of the Church.
A heavy Day's Work.
Sunday, April 15. I explained at seven o'clock, to
five or six thousand persons, the story of the Pharisee'
and the Publican. About three thousand persons
were present at Hannam  Mount.  I preached at
Newgate after dinner to a crowded congregation.
Between five and six o'clock we went to Rose Green.
It rained hard at Bristol, but not a drop fell on us
while I declared, to about five thousand, Christ our




I739.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        37
wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and
redemption. I concluded the day by showing at the
society in Baldwin-street, "His blood cleanseth us
from all sin."
A Rainy Day-Could Preach only Four Times.
Saturday, April 2I. At Weaver's Hall a young
man wais suddenly seized with a violent trembling all
over, and in a few minutes, the sorrows of his heart
being enlarged, sunk down to the ground. But we
ceased not calling upon God till he raised him up,
full of "peace and joy in the Holy Ghost." On
Easter Day, it being a thorough rain, I could only
preach at Newgate at eight o'clock in the morning,
and two in the afternoon; in a house near Hannam
Mount at eleven; and in one near Rose Green at
five. At the society in the evening many were cut
to the heart, and many comforted.
Free Salvation joyfully received at Newgate.
Wednesday, April 24. To above two thousand, at
Baptist Mills, I explained that glorious scripture,
(describing the state of every true believer in Christ
-every one who by faith is born of God,) "Ye have
not received the spirit of bondage again to fear;
but ye have received the spirit of adoption, whereby
we cry, Abba, Father."
Thursday, April 25. While I was preaching at
Newgate on these words, "He that believeth hath
everlasting life," I was insensibly led, without any
previous design, to declare strongly and explicitly
that God willeth "all men to be" thus "saved;" and
to pray that, "if this were not the truth of God, he




38          Wesley his Own Historianz.    [I739.
would not suffer the blind to go out of the way; but,
if it were, he would bear witness to his word." Immediately one, and another, and another sunk to the
earth: they dropped on every side as if thunderstruck.
One of them cried aloud. We besought God in her
behalf, and he turned her heaviness into joy. A second being in the same agony, we called upon God
for her also, and he spoke peace unto her soul. In
the evening I was again pressed in spirit to declare
that "Christ gave himself a ransom  for all," and
almost before we called upon him to set to his seal
he answered. One was so wounded by the sword of
the Spirit that you would have imagined she could
not live a moment. But immediately his abundant
kindness was showed, and she loudly sung of his
righteousness.
Friday, April 26. All Newgate rang with the cries
of those whom the word of God cut to the heart;
two of whom were in a moment filled with joy, to the
astonishment of those that beheld them.
Mr. Wesley Lays the Corner-stone of the First Methodist Chapel
in the World.
Tuesday, May 8. I went to Bath, but was not
suffered to be in the meadow where I was before,
which occasioned the offer of a much more convenient place, where I preached Christ to about a thousand souls.
Wednesday, May 9. We took possession of a piece
of ground near St. James's church-yard, in the Horse
Fair, where it was designed to build a room large
enough to contain both the societies of Nicholas and
Baldwin-street, and such of their acquaintance as




I739.]     Wesley his Own Historian.         39
might desire to be present with them at such times
as the Scripture was expounded. And on
Saturday, May I2. The first stone was laid with
the voice of praise and thanksgiving.
Wesley preaches to the Rich at Clifton Church.
May. Seeing many of the rich at Clifton Church,
my heart was much pained for them, and I was earnestly desirous that some of them might "enter into
the kingdom of heaven."  But full as I was, I knew
not where to begin in warning them to flee from the
wrath to come-till my Testament opened on these
words, "I came not to call the righteous but sinners
to repentance;" in applying which my soul was so
enlarged that methought I could have cried out, (in
another sense than poor, vain Archimedes,) "Give
me where to stand and I will shake the earth."
The "Lord answered for Himself."
Monday, May 2I. Perhaps it might be because of
the hardness of our hearts, unready to receive any
thing unless we see it with our eyes and hear it with
our ears, that God, in tender condescension to our
weakness, suffered so many outward signs of the very
time when he wrought this inward change to be continually seen and heard among us. But although
they saw "signs and wonders," for so I must term
them, yet many would not believe. They could not indeed deny the facts, but they could explain them away.
Some said, "These were purely natural effects; the
people fainted away only because of the heat and
closeness of the rooms." And others were "sure it
was all a cheat: they might help it if they would.




40          Wesley his Own Historian.     [1739.
Else why were these things only in their private
societies; why were they not done in the face of the
sun." To-day our Lord answered for himself, for
while I was enforcing these words, "Be still, and
know that I am God," he began to make bare his
arm, not in a close room, neither in private, but in
the open air, and before more than two thousand
witnesses. One, and another, and another was struck
to the earth, exceedingly trembling at the presence
of his power. Others cried, with a loud and bitter
cry, "What must we do to be saved?"  And in less
than an hour seven persons, wholly unknown to me
till that time, were rejoicing, and singing, and with
all their might giving thanks to the God of their
salvation.
Mr, Wesley guards against Intemperate Zeal.
Saturday, May 26. One came to us in deep despair, but after an hour spent in prayer, went away
in peace. And the next day, having observed in
many a zeal which did not suit with the sweetness
and gentleness of love, I preached at Rose Green,
to the largest congregation I ever had there, (I
believe, upward of ten thousand souls,) on those
words, "Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are
of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy
men's lives, but to save them."
A Noted Man Confounded.
Tuesday, 7iune 5. There was great expectation at
Bath of what a noted man was to do to me there, and
I was much entreated not to preach, because no one
knew what might happen.  By this report I also




I739.]     Wesley his Ozun Historian.       4I
gained a much larger audience, among whom were
many of the rich and great. I told them plainly, the
Scripture had concluded them all under sin; high
and low, rich and poor, one with another. Many of
them seemed to be a little surprised, and were sinking apace into seriousness, when their champion
appeared, and coming close to me, asked by what
authority I did these things.  I replied, "By the
authority of Jesus Christ, conveyed to me by the
(now) Archbishop of Canterbury, when he laid hands
upon me and said,'Take thou authority to preach
the Gospel.'" He said, "This is contrary to Act of
Parliament: this is a conventicle." I answered, " Sir,
the conventicles mentioned in that Act (as the preamble shows) are seditious meetings; but this is not
such; here is no shadow of sedition; therefore it is
not contrary to that Act." He replied, " I say it is;
and, besides, your preaching frightens people out of
their wits."  "Sir, did you ever hear me preach?"
" No." "How, then, can you judge of what you never
heard?"  "Sir, by common report."  "Common report is not enough. Give me leave, sir, to ask, Is
not your name Nash?" " My name is Nash." " Sir, I
dare not judge of you by common report; I think it
not enough to judge by." Here he paused awhile,
and, having recovered himself, said, "I desire to
know what this people comes here for? " on which
one replied, " Sir, leave him to me: let an old woman
answer him. You, Mr. Nash, take care of your body;
we take care of our souls; and for the food of
our souls we come here." He replied not a word,
but walked away.




42          Wesley his Own Historian.      [I739.
The Curiosity of Ladies Rebuked.
lu/ne 5. As I returned, the street was full of
people, hurrying to and fro, and speaking great
words. But when any of them asked, " Which is
he?" and I replied, "I am he," they were immediately silent. Several ladies following me into Mr.
Merchant's house, the servant told me there were some
wanted to speak to me. I went to them and said,
"I believe, ladies, the maid mistook; you only wanted
to look at me." I added, " I do not expect that the
rich and great should want either to speak with me,
or to hear me, for I speak the plain truth-a thing
you hear little of, and do not desire to hear."
Objections to Irregular Preaching Answered.
[One having made some objections to Mr. Wesley's
irregularity in preaching wherever he found an open
door, and having urged the acceptance of " a cure of
souls," was answered by him thus:]
" But, in the meantime, you think I ought to sit
still; because otherwise I should invade another's
office if I interfered with other people's business,
and intermeddled with souls that did not belong to me.
You accordingly ask,'How is it that I assemble
Christians who are none of my charge, to sing psalms
and pray, and hear the Scriptures expounded; and
think it hard to justify doing this in other men's
parishes, upon catholic principles.
".Permit me to speak plainly. If by catholic principles you mean any other than scriptural, they weigh
nothing with me; I allow no other rule, whether of
faith or practice, than the Holy Scriptures; but on
scriptural principles, I do not think it hard to justify




[1739.      Wesley his Own Historian.         43,
whatever I do. God in Scripture commands me,
according to my power, to instruct the'ignorant,
reform the wicked, confirm the virtuous. Man forbids me to do this in another's parish; that is, in
effect, to do it at all; seeing I have now no parish
of my own, nor probably ever shall. Whom, then,
shall I hear, God or man?'If it be just to obey
man rather than' God, judge you.' A dispensation of
the Gospel is committed to me, and woe is me if I
preach not the Gospel.' But where shall I preach it
upon the principles you mention? Why, not in
Europe, Asia, Africa, or America; not in any of the
Christian parts, at least, of the habitable earth: for all
these are, after a sort, divided into parishes.  If
it be said,' Go back, then, to the heathens from
whence you came;' nay, but neither could I now
(on your principles) preach to them, for all the
heathens in Georgia belong to the parish either of
Savannah or Frederica.
"' Suffer me now to tell you my principles in this
matter. I look upon all the world as my parish;
thus far I mean, that, in whatever part of it I am, I
judge it meet, right, and my bounden duty, to declare
unto all that are willing to hear, the glad tidings of
salvation. This is the work which I know God has
called me to; and sure I am that his blessing attends
it. Great encouragement havxe I, therefore, to be
faithful. His servant I am, and, as such, am employed
according to the plain direction of his word, as
I have opportunity, doing'good unto all men;'
and his providence clearly concurs with his word;
which has disengaged me from all things else,
that I might singly attend to this very thing.




44         7Wesley his Own Historian.      [I739.
Wesley preaches for Mr. Whitefield Out 6f Doors
Thursday, Yune I4. I went with Mr. Whitefield
to Blackheath, where were, I believe, twelve or fourteen thousand people.  He a little surprised me by
desiring me to preach in his stead; which I did
(though nature recoiled) on my favorite subject, "Jesus
Christ, who of God is made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption."  I was
greatly moved with compassion for the rich that were
there, to whom I made a particular application. Some
of them seemed to attend, while others drove away
their coaches from so uncouth a preacher.
Too Strict for the Quaker.
Friday, rune 15. I had much talk with one who is
called a Quaker, but he could not receive my saying. I was too strict for him, and talked of such a
perfection as he could not think necessary; being
persuaded there was no harm in costly apparel, provided it was plain and grave; or in putting scarlet or
gold upon our houses, so it were not upon our clothes.
We did not Dispute, but Pray.
Sunday, Yune 17. I preached at seven, in Upper
Moorfields, to, I believe, six or seven thousand people,
on " Ho! every one that thirsteth, come ye to the
waters."  In the afternoon I saw poor R-d Y-n,
who had left our society and the Church. We did not
dispute, but pray, and in a short space the scales fell
off from his eyes. Ile gladly returned to the Church,
and was admitted into our society.  In the evening
I preached on Kennington Common to about fifteen
thousand people on these words: "Look unto me,
and be ye saved, all ye ends of the earth."




I739.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         45
Whitefield's Preaching Produces "Outward Signs."
Yuly 6. In the afternoon I was with Mr. Whitefield,
just come from London, with whom I went to Baptist Mills, where he preached concerning the "Holy
Ghost, which they that believe on him should receive;"
not without a just, though severe, censure of those
who preach as if there were no Holy Ghost. Next
day I had an opportunity to talk with him of those
outward signs which had so often accompanied the
inward work of God. I found his objections were
chiefly grounded on gross misrepresentations of matter of fact. But the next day he had an opportunity
of informing himself better; for no sooner had he
begun (in the application of his sermon) to invite all
sinners to believe in Christ than four persons sunk
down close to him, almost in the same moment. One
of them lay without either sense or motion. A second
trembled exceedingly. The third had strong convulsions all over his body, but made no noise, unless by
groans. The fourth, equally convulsed, called upon
God with strong cries and tears. From this time,
I trust, we shall all suffer God to carry on his own
work in the way which pleaseth him.
Wesley has an Interview with a Bigoted Churchman.
Monday, Aug. 27. For two hours I took up my
cross in arguing with a zealous man, and laboring to
convince him that I was not an enemy to the Church
of England.  He allowed I taught no other doctrines
than those of the Church, but could not forgive my
teaching them out of.the church walls. He allowed,
too, (which none indeed can deny, who has either
any regard to truth or sense of shame,) that "by




46          Wesley his Own Historian.      I[I739.
this teaching, many souls who, till that time, were'perishing for lack of knowledge,' have been and are
brought'from darkness to light, and from the power
of Satan unto God."' But he added, "No one can
tell what may be hereafter; and, therefore, I say these
things ought not to be suffered."
Wesley charged with being a Papist.
Aug. 27. Indeed the report now current in Bristol
was, that I was a Papist, if not a Jesuit. Some
added that I was born and bred at Rome, which
many cordially believed.  O ye fools, when.will ye
understand that the preaching of justification by faith
alone, the allowing no meritorious cause of justification but the death and righteousness of Christ,
and no conditional or instrumental cause but-faith, is
overturning Popery from the foundation!
His Motherreceives the Witness of the Spirit.
Monday, Sept. 3. I talked largely with my mother,
who told me that till a short time since she had
scarce heard such a thing mentioned as the having
forgiveness of sins now, or God's Spirit bearing witness with our spirit; much less did she imagine that
this was the common privilege of all true believers.
"Therefore," said she, "I never durst ask for it myself. But two or three weeks ago, while my son Hall
was pronouncing these words in delivering the cup
to me,' The blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, which
was given for thee,' the words struck through my
heart, and I knew God, for Christ's sake, had forgiven
me all my sins."
I asked whether her father (Dr. Annesley) had
not the same faith, and whether she had not heard




1739.].Wesley his Own Historzan.          47
him preach it to others. She answered, he had it him~self; and declared, a little before his death, that for
more than forty years he had no darkness, no fear, no
doubt at all of his being "accepted in the Beloved."
But that, nevertheless, she did not remember to have
heard him preach, no not once, explicitly upon it;
whence she supposed he also looked upon it as the
peculiar blessing of a few, not as promised to all
the people of God.
Wesley preaches to Twenty Thousand Persons,
Sunday, Sept. 9. I declared to ten thousand people
in Moorfields, what they must do to be saved. My
mother went with us about five to Kennington, where
were supposed to be twenty thousand people. I again
insisted on that foundation of all our hopes, " Believe
on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved."
A Churchman's Questions Promptly Answered.
Thursday, Sept. I3. A serious clergyman desired
to know in what points we differed from the Church
of England.  I answered, " To the best of my knowledge, in none. The doctrines we preach are the
doctrines of the Church of England; indeed, the
-fundamental doctrines of the Church, clearly laid
down, both in her Prayers, Articles, and Homilies."
He asked, " In what points, then, do you differ from
the other clergy of the Church of England?" I
answered, "In none from that part of the clergy
who adhere to the doctrines of the Church; but
from that part of the clergy who dissent from the
Church (though they own it not) I differ in the
p:)ints following:




48          Wesley his Own Historian..     [I739.
"First. They speak of justification either as the
same thing with sanctification, or as something consequent upon it. I believe justification to be wholly
distinct from sanctification, and necessarily antecedent to it.
" Secondly. They speak of our own holiness, or good
works, as the cause of our justification; or, that for
the sake of which, on account of which, we are justified before God. I believe neither our own holiness
nor good works are any part of the cause of our justification, but that the death and righteousness of
Christ are the whole and sole cause of it; or,'that
for the sake of which, on account of which, we are
justified before God.
" Thirdly. They speak of good works as a condition
of justification, necessarily previous to it. I believe
no good work can be previous to justification, nor,
consequently, a condition of it; but that we are justified (being till that hour ungodly, and, therefore,
incapable of doing any good work) by faith alone,
faith without works, faith (though producing all, yet)
including no good work.
"Fourthly. They speak of sanctification (or holiness) as if it were an outward thing, as if it consisted
chiefly, if not wholly, in those two points: I. The
doing no harm; 2. The doing good, as it is called,
that is, the using the means of grace and helping
our neighbor.
"I believe, it to be an inward thing, namely, the
life of God in the soul of man, a participation of the
divine nature, the mind that was in Christ, or the
renewal of our heart after the image of him that created us.




I739.]     Wesley his Own Historian.         49
"Lastly. They speak of the new birth as an outward thing, as if it were no more than baptism, or, at
most, a change from outward wickedness to outward
goodness; from a vicious to (what is called) a virtuous life. I believe it to be an inward thing; a change
from inward wickedness to inward goodness; an entire change of our inmost nature from the image of
the devil (wherein we are born) to the image of God;
a change from the love of the creature to the love of
the Creator; from earthly and sensual to heavenly and
holy affections; in a word, a change from the tempers of the spirits of darkness to those of the angels
of God in heaven.
"There is, therefore, a wide, essential, fundament-.
al, irreconcilable difference between us; so that if
they speak the truth as it is in Jesus, I am found a
false witness before God; but if I teach the way of
God in truth, they are blind leaders of the blind."
Satan Cast Out in Answer to Prayer.
Oct. 1739. Soon after I was sent for to one of those
who was so strangely torn by the devil that I almost
wondered her relations did not say, " Much religion
hath made thee mad."  We prayed God to bruise
Satan under her feet. Immediately we had the petition we asked of him. She cried out vehemently,
"He is gone! he is gone!" and was filled with the
spirit of love and of a sound mind. I have seen her
many times since, strong in the Lord. When I
asked abruptly, "What do you desire now?"  She
answered, " Heaven."  I asked, "What is in your
heart?"  She replied, "God."  I asked, "But how
is your heart when any thing provokes you?"  She
4




50          Wesley his Own Historian.    [I739.
said, " By the grace of God, I am not provoked at
any thing. All the things of this world pass by me
as shadows." " Ye have seen the end of the Lord:"
is he not " very pitiful and of tender mercy?'"
A Sermon on the Beatitudes: Service three Hours Long.
Friday, Oct. I9. I preached in the morning at
Newport on " What must I do to be saved?" to the
most insensible, ill-behaved people I have ever seen
in Wales. One ancient man, during a great part of
the sermon, cursed and swore almost incessantly,
and toward the conclusion took up a great stone,
which he many times attempted to throw; but that
he could not do. Such the champions, such the arms
against field-preaching!
At four I preached at the Shire Hall of Cardiff
again, where many gentry, I found, were present.
Such freedom of speech I have seldom had as was
given me in explaining those words, "The kingdom
of God is not meat and. drink; but righteousness,
and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."  At six almost the whole town, I was informed, came together,
to whom I explained the six last beatitudes; but my
heart was so enlarged I knew not how to give over,
so that we continued three hours. 0 may the seed
they have received have its fruit unto holiness, and
in the end everlasting life!
A Wife Hopeful of Her Husband.
Wednesday, Oct. 24. I preached at Baptist Mills on
those words of St. Paul, speaking in the person of
one "under the law," (that is, still "carnal, and sold
under sin," though groaning for deliverance,) "I




I739-40.]   Wesley his Own Historian.         5I
know that in me dwelleth no good thing." A poor
woman told me afterward, " I does hope as my husband wont hinder me any more, for I minded he did
shiver every bone of him, and the tears ran down his
cheeks like the rain."
An Objection with a Concession.
Sznday, Nov. 25. I preached at St. Mary's on " The
kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost." Dr. W.
told me after sermon, "Sir, you must not preach in
the afternoon. Not," said he, "that you preach any
false doctrine. I allow all that you have said is true,
and it is the doctrine of the Church of England;
but it is not guarded. It is dangerous. It may lead
people into enthusiasm or despair."
"Sick of this Sublime Divinity."
Sunday, Nov. 30. One came to me by whom I
used to profit much; but her conversation was now
too high for me: it was far above, out of my sight.
My soul is sick of this sublime divinity! Let me
think and speak as a little child! let my religion be
plain, artless, simple!  Meekness, temperance, patience, faith, and love, be these amy highest gifts, and
let the highest words wherein I teach them be those
I learn from the book of God.
Who are Dissenters from the Church of England.
Feb. I740. Our twentieth article defines a true
Church, "a congregation of faithful people, wherein
the true word of God is preached and the sacraments
duly administered." According to this account the




52          Wesley his Own Historian.      [I740.
Church of England is that body of faithful people,
(or holy believers,) in England, among whom the
pure word of God is preached, and the sacraments
duly administered. Who, then, are the worst dissenters from this Church? I. Unholy men of all
kinds: swearers, Sabbath breakers, drunkards, fighters, whoremongers, liars, revilers, evil speakers; the
passionate, the gay, the lovers of money, the lovers
of dress or of praise, the lovers of pleasure more than
the lovers of God; all these are dissenters of the
highest sort, continually striking at the root of the
Church, and themselves belonging, in truth, to no
Church, but to the synagogue of Satan. 2. Men unsound in the faith, those who deny the Scriptures of
truth, those who deny the Lord that bought them,
those who deny justification by faith alone, or the
present salvation which is by faith; these also are
dissenters of a very high kind, for they likewise strike
at the foundation; and were their principles universally to obtain there could be no true Church upon
earth. Lastly, those who unduly administer the sacraments, who (to instance but in one point) administer the Lord's Supper to such as have neither the
power nor the form of godliness. These, too, are
gross dissenters from the Church of England, and
should not cast the first stone at others.
First Mob at Bristol.
Tuesday, April I. While I was expounding the
former part of the twenty-third chapter of the Acts,
(how wonderfully suited to the occasion, though not
by my choice,) the floods began to lift up their voice.
Some or other of the children of Belial had labored




1740.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         53
to disturb us several nights before, but now it seemed
as if all the host of the aliens were come together
with one consent. Not only the court and the alleys,
but all the street, upward and downward, was filled
with people, shouting, cursing, and swearing, and
ready to swallow the ground with fierceness and
rage. The mayor sent order that they should disperse, but they set him at naught. The chief constable came next in person, who was, till then, sufficiently prejudiced against us; but they insulted him,
also, in so gross a manner as, I believe, fully opened his
eyes. At length the Mayor sent several of his officers, who took the ringleaders into custody, and did
not go till all the rest were dispersed. Surely he
hath been to us " the minister of God for good."
Wednesday, April 2. The rioters were brought up
to the.court, the quarter sessions being held that day.
They began to excuse themselves by saying many
things of me. But the Mayor cut them all short, saying, "What Mr. Wesley is is nothing to you. I will
keep the peace. I will have no rioting in this city."
Alderman Beecher-Citation.
April. Calling at Newgate in the afternoon, I was
informed that the poor wretches under sentence of
death were earnestly desirous to speak with me, but
that it could not be, Alderman Beecher having just
then sent an express order that they should not. I
cite Alderman Beecher to answer for these souls at
the judgment seat of Christ.
A Spirit of Controversy not Tolerated,
Yune. In the evening'Mr. Acourt complained that
Mr. Nowers had hindered his going into our society.




54          Wesley his Own Historian.    [1740.
Mr. Nowers answered, "It was by Mr. C. Wesley's
order."  "What," said Mr. Acourt, "do you refuse
admitting a person into your society only because he
differs from you in opinion?"  I answered, "No;
but what opinion do you mean?"  He said, "That
of election. I hold a certain number is elected from
eternity, and these must and shall be saved, and the
rest of mankind must and shall be damned, and many
of your society hold the same." I replied, " I never
asked whether they hold it or no, only let them not
trouble others by disputing about it." He said, "Nay,
but I will dispute about it."  "What, wherever you
come?"  "Yes, wherever I come."  "Why, then,
would you come among us, who, you know, are of
another mind?"  "Because you are all wrong, and I
am resolved to set you all right."  "I fear your coming with this view would neither profit you nor us."
He concluded, "Then I will go and tell all the world
that you and your brother are false prophets. And
I tell you, in one fortnight, you will all be in confusion."
Decisive Disciplinary Action.
Sunday, Iuly 20. At Mr. Seward's earnest request,
I preached once more in Moorfields on "the work
of faith," and " the patience of hope," and "the labor
of love." A zealous man was so kind as to free us
from most of the noisy, careless hearers, or spectators rather, by reading, meanwhile, at a small distance, a chapter in the "Whole Duty of Mali." I
wish neither he nor they may ever read a worse book;
though I can tell them of a better —the Bible. In
the evening I went with Mr. Seward to. the lovefeast in Fetter-lane; at the conclusion of which, having




1740.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        55
said nothing till then, I read a paper the substance
whereof was as follows:
"About nine months ago certain of you began to
speak contrary to the doctrine we had till then received. The sum of what you asserted is this:
I. That there is no such thing as weak faith: that
there is no justifying faith where there is ever any
doubt or fear, or where there is not, in the full sense,
a new, a clean heart. 2. That a man ought not to
use those ordinances of God, which our Church terms'means of grace,' before he has such a faith as excludes all doubt and fear, and implies a new, a clean
heart.
" You have often affirmed, that to search the Scriptures, to pray, or to communicate, before we have
this faith, is to seek salvation by works; and that till
these works are laid aside no man can receive faith.
I believe these assertions to be flatly contrary to the
word of God. I have warned ydu hereof again and
again, and besought you to turn back to the law
and the testimony. I have borne with you long,
hoping you would turn. But as I find you more and
more confirmed in the error of your ways, nothing
now remains but that I give you up to God. You
that are of the same judgment follow me."
I then, without saying any thing more, withdrew,
as did eighteen or nineteen of the society.
First Meeting at the Foundry.
Wednesday, _uy, 23. Our little company met at
the Foundry instead of Fetter-lane. About twentyfive of our brethren God hath given us already, all
of whom think and speak the same thing; seven or




56          Wesley his Own Historianz.    [1740.
eight and forty likewise, of the fifty women that were
in band, desired to cast in their lot with us.
Disturbers Confounded.
Aug. In the evening many were gathered together
at Long-lane, on purpose to make a disturbance;
having procured a woman to begin, well known in
those parts as neither fearing God nor regarding
man. The instant she broke out I turned full upon
her, and declared the love our Lord had for her soul.
We then prayed that he would confirm the word of
his grace. She was struck to the heart, and shame
covered her face. From her I turned to the rest,
who melted away like water, and were as men that
had no strength. But surely some of them shall find
who is their "rock" and their "strong salvation."
Satan against Satan.
Tu'esday, Sept. I6. Many more, who came in among
us as lions, in a short space became as lambs; the
tears trickling apace down their cheeks, who at first
most loudly contradicted and blasphemed. I wonder
the devil has not wisdom enough to discern that he
is destroying his own kingdom. I believe he has
never yet, any one time, caused this open opposition
to the truth of God without losing one or more of
his servants, who were found of God while they
sought him not.
A Mob at Mr. Wesley's Door.
Sunday, Sept. 28. I began expounding the sermon on
the mount at London. In the afternoon I described,
to a numerous congregation at Kennington, the life




I740.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       57
of God in the soul. One person who stood on the
mount made a little noise at first; but a gentleman,
whom I knew not, walked up to him, and, without
saying one word, mildly took him by the hand and
led him down. From that time he was quiet till he
went away. When 4 came home I found an innumerable mob round the door, who all opened their
throats the moment they saw me. I desired my
friends to go into the house; and then, walking into
the midst of the people, proclaimed "the name of
the Lord, gracious and merciful, and repenting him
of the evil." They stood staring one at another. I
told them they could not flee from the face of this
great God, and therefore besought them, that we
might all join together in crying to him for mercy.
To this they readily agreed. I then commended
them to his grace, and went undisturbed to the little
company within.
A Ohurchman's Demonstration turned against Himself.
Friday, Nov. 28. A gentleman came to me full of
good will, to exhort me not to leave the Church; or,
which was the same thing in his account, to use extemporary prayer; which, said he, "I will prove to a
demonstration to be no prayer at all. For you cannot do two things at once. But thinking how to
pray, and praying, are two things. Ergo, you cannot both think and pray at once." Now, may it not
be proved by the self-same demonstration, that praying by a form is no prayer at all?.For example,
"You cannot do two things at once. But reading
and praying are two things. Ergo, you cannot both
read and pray at once."




58          Wesley his Own Historian.      [I74I.
Labor Lost and Mischief Prevented.'
Sunday, Feb. I, I74I. A private letter, wrote to me
by Mr. Whitefield, having being printed without
either his leave or mine, great numbers of copies
were given to our people, both at the door and in the
Foundry itself. Having procured one of them, I re
lated, after preaching, the naked fact to the congregation, and told them, "I will do just what I believe
Mir. Whitefield would were he here himself." Upon
which I tore it in pieces before them all. Every one
who had received it did the same; so that in two
minutes there was not a whole copy left. Ah! poor
Ahithophel!  Ibi omnis effusus labor!  (So all the
labor's lost!)
Three Petitions Immediately Granted.
MIonday, Feb. I6. While I was preaching in Longlane, the host of the aliens gathered together; and
one large stone, many of which they threw, went just
over my shoulder. But no one was hurt in any degree; for thy " kingdom ruleth over all." All things
now being settled according to my wish, on Tuesday,
17, I left London.  In the afternoon I reached Oxford, and leaving my horse there, set out on foot for
Stanton Harcourt. The night overtook me in about
an hour, accompanied with heavy rain. Being wet
and weary, and not well knowing my way, I could
not help saying in my heart, (though ashamed of my
want of resignation to God's will,) O that thou wouldest " stay the bottles of heaven;" or, at least, give
me light, or an honest guide, or some help in the
manner thou knowest! Presently the rain ceased




174I.]     Wesley his Own IIistorian.       59
the moon broke out, and a friendly man overtook me,
who set me upon his own horse, and walked by my
side till we came to Mr. Gambold's door.
Wesley and Whitefield Diverge.
Saturday, March 28. Having heard much of Mr.
Whitefield's unkind behavior since his return from
Georgia, I went to him to hear him speak for himself, that I might know how to judge. I much approved of his plainness of speech. He told me he
and I preached two different gospels, and therefore
he not only would not join with, or give me the right
hand of fellowship, but was resolved publicly to
preach against me and my brother wheresoever he
preached at all. Mr. Hall, who went with me, put
him in mind of the promise he had made but a few
days before, that, whatever his private opinion was,
he would never publicly preach against us. He said
that promise was only an effect of human weakness,
and he was now of another mind.
Saturday, April 4. I believed both love and justice
required that I should speak my sentiments freely to
Mr. Wh - concerning the letter he had published,
said to be an answer to my sermon on free grace.
The sum of what I observed to him' was this, I. That
it was quite imprudent to publish it at all, as being
only the putting of weapons into their hands, who
loved neither the one nor the other. 2. That if he
was constrained to bear his testimony, as he termed
it, against the error I was in, he might have done it
by publishing a treatise on this head, without ever
calling my name in question. 3. That what he had
published was a mere burlesque upon an answer,




6o          Wesley his Own Historian.    [I74I.
leaving four of my eight arguments untouched, and
handling the other four in so gentle a manner, as if
he was afraid they would burn his fingers; however,
that, 4, he had said enough of what was wholly foreign to the question, to make an open and, probably,
irreparable breach between him and me: seeing
"for a treacherous wound, and for the bewraying of
secrets, every friend will depart."
Mr. Wesley's Systematic Care of the Poor.
Thursday, May 7. I reminded the United Society
that many of our brethren and sisters had not needful food; many were destitute of convenient clothing;
many were out of business, and that without their
own fault; and many sick and ready to perish; that
I had done what in me lay to feed the hungry, to
clothe the naked, to employ the poor, and to visit the
sick; but was not, alone, sufficient for these things,
and therefore desired all whose hearts were as my
heart, I. To bring what clothes each could spare, to
be distributed among those that wanted most. 2. To
give weekly a penny, or what they could afford, for
the relief of the poor and sick. My design, I told
them, is to employ, for the present, all the women
who were out of business, and desire it, in knitting.
To these we will first give the common price for that
work they do, and then add, according as they need.
Twelve persons are appointed to inspect these, and
to visit and provide things needful for the sick. Each
of these is to visit all the sick within their district
every other day; and to meet on Tuesday evening to
give an account of what they have done, and consult
what can be done further.




I74I.]     Wesley his Own Historian.         6I
An Experiment.
rune. For these two days I had made an experiment which I had been so often and earnestly pressed
to do: Speaking to none concerning the things of
God, unless my heart was free to it. And what was
the event? Why, I. That I spoke to none at all for
fourscore miles together   No, not even to him
that traveled with me in the chaise, unless a few
words at first setting out. 2. That I had no cross
either to bear or to take up, and commonly in an hour
or two fell fast asleep. 3. That I had much respect
shown me wherever I came; every one behaving to
me as to a civil, good-natured gentleman. O how
pleasing is all this to flesh and blood! Need ye
"compass sea and land" to make "proselytes" to
this!
Wesley Preaches before the University at Oxford.
Friday, _7uly 24. Several of our friends from London, and some from Kingswood and Bristol, came to
Oxford. Alas! how long shall they " come from the
east, and from the west, and sit down in the kingdom
of God," while the children of the kingdom will not
come in, but remain in utter darkness!
Saturday, uszy 25. It being my turn, (which comes
about once in three years,) I preached at St. Mary's,
before the University. The harvest truly is plenteous.
So numerous a congregation (from whatever motives
they came) I have seldom seen at Oxford. My text
was the confession of poor Agrippa, "Almost thou
persuadest me to be a Christian." I have cast my
"bread upon the waters:" let me " find it again after
many days! "  In the afternoon I set out, (having no
time to spare,) and on Sunday, 26, preached at the




62          -Wesley his Own Historian.    [ I74I.
Foundery, on the "liberty" we have "to enter into
the holiest by the blood of Jesus."
Rumors of Treason,
TWlednesday, August 26. I was informed of a remarkable conversation, at which one of our sisters
was present a day or two before, wherein a gentleman was assuring his friends that he himself was in
Charles' Square when a person told Mr. Wesley to
his face that he, Mr. Wesley, had paid twenty pounds
already, on being convicted for selling Geneva, and
that he now kept two Popish priests in his house.
This gave occasion to another to mention what he
had himself heard at an eminent dissenting teacher's,
namely, that it was beyond dispute Mr. Wesley had
large remittances from Spain, in order to make a
party among the poor; and that as soon as the
Spaniards landed, he was to join them with twenty
thousand men.
Wesley's Horse falls upon Him.
Sunday, Oct. 25. After the sacrament at All Saints,
I took horse for Kingswood; but before I came to
Lawrence Hill my horse fell, and attempting to rise
again, fell down upon me. One or two women ran
out of a neighboring house, and when I rose helped
me in. -I adore the wisdom of God. In this house
were three persons who began to run well, but Satan
had hindered them; but they resolved to set out
again, and not one of them has looked back since.
A Severe Sickness and Joyous Experience.
Wednesdoay, Nov. 4. Many of our brethren agreed
to seek God to-day by fasting and prayer. [Appar



I74I.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         63
ently for Mr. Wesley's restoration from serious illness.]
About twelve my fever began to rage. At two I dozed
a little, and suddenly awaked in such a disorder (only
more violent) as that on Monday. The silver cord
appeared to be just then loosing, and the wheel
breaking at the cistern. The blood whirled to and
fro, as if it would immediately force its way through
all its vessels, especially in the breast; and excessive
burning heat parched up my whole body, both within
and without. About three, in a moment the commotion ceased, the heat was over, and the pain gone.
Soon after it made another attack, but not near so
violent as the former. This lasted till half past four,
and then vanished away at once. I grew better and
better till nine; then I fell asleep, and scarce awaked
at all till morning.
Thursday, Nov. 5. The noisy joy of the people in
the streets did not agree with me very well, though
I am afraid it disordered their poor souls much more
than it did my body. About five in the evening my
cough returned, and soon after, the heat and other
symptoms; but with this remarkable circumstance,
that for fourteen or fifteen hours following I had
more or less sleep in every hour. This was one
cause why I was never light-headed at all, but had
the use of my understanding from the first hour of my
illness to the last, as fully as when in perfect health.
Friday, Nov. 6. Between ten and twelve the main
shock began. I can give but a faint account of this,
not for want of memory, but of words. I felt in my
body nothing but storm and tempest, hail-stones,
and coals of fire. But I do not remember that I felt
any fear, (such was the mercy of God!) nor any mur



64         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I74I.
muring. And yet I found but a dull, heavy kind of
patience, which I knew was not what it ought to be.
The fever came rushing upon me as a lion, ready to
break all my bones in pieces. My body grew weaker
every moment, but I did not feel my soul put on
strength. Then it came into my mind, " Be still, and
see the salvation of the Lord. I will not stir hand or
foot, but let him do with me what is good in his own
eyes." At once my heart was at ease. My "mouth
was filled with laughter," and my " tongue with singing."
My eyes overflowed with tears, and I began to sing
aloud. One who stood by said, " Now he is lightheaded."  I told her, "0 no; I am not light-headed,
but I am praising God; God is come to my help, and
pain is nothing; glory be to God on high!"  I now
found why it was not expedient for me to recover my
health sooner; because then I should have lost this
experimental proof, how little every thing is which
can befall the body, so long as God carries the soul
aloft, as it were, on the wings of an eagle.
No Sympathy for Mystic Writers.
Wednesday, Nov. I read over once again "Theologia Germanica." 0, how was it that I could ever
admire the affected obscurity of this unscriptural
writer! Glory be to God, that I now prefer the
plain Apostles and Prophets before him and all his
mystic followers!
Faithful Discipline,
Wednesday, Dec. 9. God humbled us in the evening
by the loss of more than thirty of our little company,
who I was obliged to exclude as no longer adorning
the Gospel of Christ. I believe it best openly to




I741 —42.]   Wesley his Own Historian.         65
declare both their names and the reason why they
were excluded. We then all cried unto God that
this might be for their edification, and not for
destruction.
Solitary Christians.
Friday, Dec. I i. I went to Bath. I had often reasoned with myself concerning this place, " Hath God
left himself without witness?" Did he never raise
up such as might be shining lights, even in the midst
of this sinful generation? Doubtless he has; but they
are either gone "to the desert," or hid under the bushel
of prudence. Some of the most serious persons I
have known at Bath are either solitary Christians,
scarce known to each other, unless by name; or
prudent Christians, as careful not to give offense as
if that were the unpardonable sin: and as zealous to
"keep their religion to themselves," as they should be,
to "let it shine before men."
Preaches Christ on a Sick Bed.
Friday, yan. I, I742. After a night of quiet sleep
I waked in a strong fever, but without any sickness,
or thirst, or pain. I consented, however, to keep my
bed, but on condition that every one who desired it
should have liberty to speak with me. I believe fifty
or sixty persons did so this day; nor did I find any
inconvenience from it. In the evening I sent for all
the bands who were in the house, that we might
magnify our Lord together. A near relation being
with me when they came, I asked her afterward if
she was not offended. " Offended!" said she: " I wish
I could be always among you.  I thought I was in
heaven." This night also, by the blessing of God, I
5




66          Wesley his Own Historian.     [1742.
slept well, to the utter astonishment of those about
me, the apothecary in particular, who said he had
never seen such a fever in his life. I had a clear remission in the morning, but about two in the afternoon a stronger fit than any before; otherwise I had
determined to have been at the meeting of the bands;
but good is the will of the Lord.
Riotous Demonstrations, with Good Results.
Monday, ian. 25. While I was explaining at Longlane, "He that committeth sin is of the devil," his
servants were above measure enraged. They not
only made all possible noise, (although, as I had desired before, no man stirred from his place, or answered them a word,) but violently thrust many persons to and fro, struck others, and brake -down part
of the house. At length they began throwing large
stones upon the house; which, forcing their way
wherever they came, fell down, together with the tiles,
among the people, so that they were in danger of their
lives. I then told them, " You must not go on thus;
I am ordered by the magistrate, who is, in this respect,
to us the minister of God, to inform him of those who
break the laws of God and the king: and I must do
it, if you persist herein; otherwise I am a partaker
of your sin."  When I ceased speaking they were
more outrageous than before. Upon this I said, " Let
three or four calm men take hold- of the foremost, and
charge a constable with him, that the law may take
its course."  They did so, and brought him into the
house,- cursing and blaspheming in a dreadful manner.
I desired five or six to go with him to justice Copeland, to whom they nakedly related the fact. The




1742.]     W'Vesley his Own Historian.      67
justice immediately bound him over to the next sessions at Guildford.
I observed when the man was brought into the
house that many of his companions were loudly crying out, "Richard Smith, Richard Smith!" who, as
it afterward appeared, was one of their stoutest
champions. But Richard Smith answered not; he
was fallen into the hands of one higher than they.
God had struck him to the heart; as also a woman,
who was speaking words not fit to be repeated, and
throwing whatever came to hand, whom he overtook
in the very act. She came into the house with
Richard Smith, fell upon her knees before us all, and
strongly exhorted him never to turn back, never to
forget the mercy which God had shown to his soul.
From this,time we had never any considerable interruption or disturbance at Long-lane; although we
withdrew our prosecution upon the offender's submission and promise of better behavior.
A Necessary Qualification.
Thursday, Feb. 4. A clergyman lately come from
America, who was at the preaching last night, called
upon me, appeared full of good desires, and seemed
willing to cast in his lot with us. But I cannot suddenly answer in this matter. I must first know what
spirit he is of; for none can labor with us, unless he
"count all things dung and dross, that he may win
Christ."
Origin of Classes in London.
Sunday, March 2 I1. In the evening I rode to Marshfield; and on Tuesday, in the afternoon, came to
London.




68          Wesley his Own Historian.      I742.]Wednesday, 24. I preached for the last time, in the
French chapel at Wapping, on, " If ye continue in my
word, then are ye my disciples indeed."
Thursday, 25. I appointed several earnest and sensible men to meet me, to whom I showed the great
difficulty I had long found of knowing the people who
desired to be under my care. After much discourse,
they all agreed there could be no better way to come
to a sure, thorough knowledge of each person than
to divide them into classes, like those at Bristol, under
the inspection of those in whom I could most confide.
This was the origin of our classes at London, for
which I can never sufficiently praise God; the unspeakable usefulness of the institution having ever
since been more and more manifest.
First Watch-night in London.
Friday, April 9. We had the first watch-night in
London. We commonly choose for this solemn service the Friday night nearest the full moon, either before or after, that those of the congregation who live
at a distance may have light to their several homes.
The service begins at half an hour past eight, and
continues till a little after midnight. We have often
found a peculiar blessing at these seasons. There is
generally a deep awe upon the congregation, perhaps
in some measure owing to the silence of the night,
particularly in singing the hymn with which we
commonly conclude:
Hearken to the solemn voice,
The awful midnight cry!
Waiting souls, rejoice, rejoice,
And feel the Bridegroom nigh.




1742.]      Wesley his Own Histo ican.       69
A Running Debate.
On Thursday, May 20, I set out. The next afternoon I stopped a little at Newport Pagnell, and then
rode on till I overtook a serious man, with whom I
immediately fell into conversation. He presently
gave me to know what his opinions were; therefore
I said nothing to contradict them. But that did not
content him; he was quite uneasy to know whether
I held the doctrine of the decrees as he did; but I
told him over and over, "We had better keep to
practical things, lest we should be angry at one
another." And so we did for two miles, till he caught
me unawares, and dragged me into the dispute before
I knew where I was. He then grew warmer and
warmer; told me I was rotten at heart, and supposed
I was one of John Wesley's followers. I told him,
"No, I am John Wesley himself."  Upon which,
Improvisum a    dsris veluti qui senlibus ang'uem
Pressit-(As one that has unawares trodden upon a snake,)
he would gladly have run away outright. But, being
the better mounted of the two, I kept close to his
side, and endeavored to show him his heart till we
came into the street of Northampton.
How John Nelson was Led to Preach.
Tuesday, May 25. I set out early in the morning
with John Taylor, (since settled in London;) and
Wednesday 26, in the evening, reached Birstal, six
miles beyond Wakefield. John Nelson had wrote to
me some time before, but at that time I had little
thought of seeing him. Hearing he was at home, I
sent for him to our inn; whence he immediately car



70         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I1742.
ried me to his house, and gave me an account of the
strange manner wherein he had been led on from
the time of our parting at London.
He had full business there, and large wages. But
from the time of his finding peace with God, it was
continually upon his mind that he must return
(though he knew not why) to his native place. He
did so, about Christmas, in the year I740. His relations and acquaintance soon began to inquire what
he thought of this new faith, and whether he believed
there was any such thing as a man's knowing that
his sins were forgiven. John told them point blank
that this new faith, as they called it, was the old faith
of the Gospel:; and that he himself was as sure his
sins were forgiven, as he could be of the shining of
the sun. This was soon noised abroad; more and
more came to inquire concerning these strange things:
some put him upon the proof of the great truths which
such inquiries naturally led him to mention; and
thus he was brought unawares to quote, explain, compare, and enforce several parts of Scripture. This
he did at first, sitting in his house; till the company
increased so that the house could not contain them.
Then he stood at the door, which he was commonly
obliged to do, in the evening, as soon as he came
from work. God immediately set his seal to what
was spoken; and several believed, and therefore declared, that God was merciful also to their unrighteousness, and had forgiven all their sins.
Mr. Wesley Preaches at Newcastle-upon-Tyne,
Sunday, May 30. At seven I walked down to
Sandgate, the poorest and most contemptible part of




1742.]     WYesley his Own Historian.       71
the town, and, standing at the end of the street with
John Taylor, began to sing the hundredth psalm.
Three or four people came out to see what was the
matter, who soon increased to four or five hundred.
I suppose there might be twelve or fifteen hundred
before I had done preaching, to whom I applied these
solemn words: " He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisemnent of our peace was hpon him; and by his stripes
we are healed." Observing the people, when I had
done, to stand gaping and staring upon me with the
most profound astonishment, I told them, "If you
desire to know who I am, my name is John Wesley.
At five in the evening, with God's help, I design to
preach here again."
At five the hill on which I designed to preach was
covered from the top to the bottom. I never saw so
large a number of people together either in Moorfields or at Kennington Common. I knew it was
not possible for the one half to hear, although my
voice was then strong and clear, and I stood so as to
have them all in view, as they were ranged on the
side of the hill. The word of God which I set before
them was, "I will heal their backsliding, I will love
them freely." After preaching, the poor people were
ready to tread me under foot out of pure love and
kindness. It was some time before I could possibly
get out of the press.
A Sharp criticism,
Friday, Yune 4. At noon I preached at Bristol once
more. All the hearers were deeply attentive, whom
I now confidently and cheerfully committed to "the




72          Wesley his Own Historian.    [1742.
great Shepherd and Bishop of souls."  Hence I rode
to Beeston. Here I met once more with the works
of a celebrated author, of whom many great men cannot speak without rapture and the strongest expressions of admiration-I mean Jacob Behmen.  The
book I now opened was his "Mysterium Magnum,"
or Exposition of Genesis. Being conscious of my
ignorance, I earnestly besought God to enlighten my
understanding. I seriously considered what I read,
and endeavored to weigh it -in the balance of the
sanctuary. And what can I say concerning the part
I read? I can and must say thus much, (and that
with as full evidence as I can say that two and two
make four,) it is most sublime nonsense, inimitable
bombast, fustian not to be paralleled; all of a piece
with his inspired interpretation of the word Tetragramnmaton, on which (mistaking it for the unutterable name itself, whereas it means only a word consisting of four letters) he comments with such exquisite
gravity and solemnity, telling you the meaning of
every syllable of it.
Condemns Borrowed Phrases from Mystic Writers.
Saturday, Yune 5. I rode for Epworth. Before we
came thither I made an end of Madam  Guyon's
"Short Method of Prayer," and " Les Torrents Spirituelles." Ah, my brethren, I can answer your riddle now I have plowed with your heifer. The very
words I have so often heard some of you use are not
your own no more than they are God's. They are
only retailed from this poor Quietist, and that with
the utmost faithfulness. O that ye knew how much
God is wiser than man!  Then would you drop




I742.]     Wesley hSis Owne Historian.      73
Quietists and Mystics together, and at all hazards
keep to the plain, practical, written word of God.
Wesley Preaches on his Father's Tombstone.
Yune. It being many years since I had been in
Epworth before, I went to an inn in the middle of
the town, not knowing whether there were any left
in it now who would not be ashamed of my acquaintance; but an old servant of my father's, with two or
three poor women, presently found me out. I asked
her, " Do you know any in Epworth who are in earnest to be saved?"  She answered, "I am, by the
grace of God, and I know I am saved through faith."
I asked, " Have you, then, the peace of God? Do
you know that he has forgiven your sins?"  She
replied, "I thank God, I know it well. And many
here can say the same thing."
Sunday, h7une 6. A little before the service began
I went to Mr. Romley, the curate, and offered to
assist him either by preaching or reading prayers;
but he did not care to accept of my assistance. The
church was exceeding fuill in the afternoon, a rumor
being spread that I was to preach. But the sermon,
on " Quench not the Spirit," was not suitable to the
expectation of many of the hearers. Mr. Romley
told them one of the most dangerous ways of quenching the Spirit was by enthusiasm, and enlarged on
the character of an enthusiast in a very florid and
oratorical manner. After sermon John Taylor stood
in the church-yard and gave notice, as the people
were coming out, " Mr. Wesley, not being permitted
to preach in the church, designs to preach here at
six o'clock."  Accordingly at six I came, and found




74         Wesley his Own Historian.      [ 742.
such a congregation as I believe Epworth never saw
before. I stood near the east end of the church,
upon my father's tombstone, and cried, " The kingdom of heaven is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."
A Wagon Load of Heretics.
Wednesday, Yune 9. I rode over to a neighboring
town to wait upon a justice of the peace, a man of candor and understanding, before whom, I was informed,
their angry neighbors had carried a wagon load of
these new heretics. But when he asked what they
had done there was a deep silence, for that was a
point their conductor had forgotten. At length one
said, "Why, they pretend to be better than other
people; and besides, they prayed from morning till
night." Mr. S. asked, " But have they done nothing
besides?" "Yes, sir," said an old man; "an't please
your worship, they have convarted my wife. Till she
went among them she had such a tongue, and now
she is as quiet as a lamb." " Carry them back, carry
them back," replied the justice, " and let them convert
all the scolds in town."'
A Shaking Among the Dry Bones at Epworth.
Friday, fune I I. I visited the sick, and those who
desired, but were not able, to come to me. At six I
preached at Overthorp, near Haxey, (a little village
about two miles from Epworth,) on that comfortable
scripture, " When they had nothing to pay, he frankly
forgave them both." I preached at Epworth, about
eight, on Ezekiel's vision of the resurrection of the
dry bones, and great indeed was the shaking among




I742.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        75
them; lamentation and great mourning were heard,
God bowing their hearts, so that on every side, as
with one accord, they lift up their voice and wept
aloud.  Surely he who sent his Spirit to breathe
upon them will hear their cry and will help them.
Saturday, rune I2. I preached on the righteousness of the law and the righteousness of faith. While
I was speaking several dropped down as dead; and
among the rest, such a cry was heard, of sinners
groaning for the righteousness of faith, as almost
drowned my voice; but many of these soon lifted up
their heads with joy and broke out into thanksgiving,
being assured they now had the desire of their soul
-the forgiveness of their sins. I observed a gentleman there who was remarkable for not pretending to
be of any religion at all. I was informed he had not
been at public worship of any kind for upward of
thirty years. Seeing him stand as motionless as a
statue, I asked him abruptly, "Sir, are you a sinner?"
He replied, with a deep and broken voice, " Sinner
enough;" and continued staring upward till his wife
and a servant or two, who were all in tears, put him
into his chaise and carried him home.
Fruit at Last.
Sunday, rune 13. I preached for the last time in Epworth church-yard, (being to leave the town the next
morning,) to a vast multitude, gathered together from
all parts, on the beginning of our Lord's sermon on
the mount. I continued among, them for near three
hours, and yet we scarce knew how to part. O let none
think his labor of love is lost because the fruit does
not immediately appear! Near forty years did my




76          Wesley his Own Historian.     [1742.
father labor here, but he saw little fruit of his labor
I took some pains among this people too, and my
strength also seemed spent in vain, but. now the fruit
appeared. There were scarce any in the town on
whom either my father or I had taken any pains formerly; but the seed, sown so long since, now sprang
up, bringing forth repentance and remission of sins.
Wesley present at the Death of his Mother,
Friday, ~fuly 23. About three in the afternoon I
went to my mother, and found her change was near.
I sat down on the bedside. ~ She was in her last conflict, unable to speak, but I believe quite sensible.
Her look was calm and serene, and her eyes fixed
upward, while we commended her soul to God.
From three to four the silver cord was loosing, and
the wheel breaking at the cistern; and then, without
any struggle, or sigh, or groan, the soul was set at
liberty. We stood round the bed and fulfilled her
last request, uttered a little before she lost her
speech: "Children, as soon as I am released sing a
psalm of praise to God."
Her Burial and Epitaph.
Sunday, Aug. I. Almost an innumerable company
of people being gathered together about five in the
afternoon, I committed to the earth the body of my
mother, to sleep with her fathers. The portion of
Scripture from  which I afterward spoke was, "I
saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it,
from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away;
and there was found no place for them. And I saw
the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the




1742.]         Wesley his Own Historian.                77
books were opened: and the dead were judged out
of those things which were written in the books, according to their works."  It was one of the most
solemn assemblies I ever saw, or expect to see on
this side eternity. We set up a plain stone at the
head of her grave inscribed with the following words:
HERE LIES THE BODY OF
MRS. SUSANNAH  WESLEY,
THE YOUNGEST AND LAST SURVIVING DAUGHTER OF
DR. SAMUEL ANNESLEY.
In sure and steadfast hope to rise,
And claim her mansion in the skies,
A Christian here her flesh laid down,
The cross exchanging for a crown.
True daughter of affliction, she,
Inured to pain and misery,
Mourned a long night of griefs and fears,
A legal night of seventy years.
The Father then revealed his Son,
Him in the broken bread made known.
She knew and felt her sins forgiven,
And found the earnest of her heaven.
Meet for the fellowship above,
She heard the call, " Arise, my love! "
" I come," her dying looks replied,
And lamb-like, as her Lord, she died.
Wesley Visits Newgate Prisoners
Saturday, Sept. 4. I was pressed to visit a poor
murderer in Newgate, who was much afflicted both in
body and soul. I objected; it could not be; for all
the turnkeys, as well as the keeper, were so good
Christians they abhorred the name of a Methodist,




78          Wresley his Own Historian.   [1742.
and had absolutely refused to admit me even to one
who earnestly begged it the morning he was to die.
However, I went, and found, by a surprising turn,
that all the doors were now open to me. I exhorted
the sick malefactor to cry unto God with all his might
for grace to repent and believe the Gospel.  It was
not long before the rest of the felons flocked round,
to whom I spoke strong words concerning the Friend
of sinners, which they received with as great signs
of amazement as if it had been a voice from heaven.
When I came down into the Common Hall, (I think
they called it,) one of the prisoners there asking me
a question, gave me occasion to speak among them
also; more and more still running together, while I
declared, God was "not willing any of them should
perish, but that all should come to repentance."
Bloodl Drawn in the Battle for Truth
Sunday, Sept. 12. I was desired to preach in an open
place, commonly called the Great Gardens, lying between Whitechapel and Coverlet Fields, where I found,
a vast multitude gathered together. Taking' knowledge that a great part of them were little acquainted
with the things of God, I called upon them in the
words of our Lord, "Repent ye; and believe the
Gospel." Many of the beasts of the people labored
much to disturb those who were of a better mind.
They endeavored to drive in a herd of cows among
them; but the brutes were wiser than their masters.
They then threw whole showers of stones, one of
which struck me just between the eyes; but I felt no
pain at all; and, when I had wiped away the blood,
went on testifying with a loud voice that God hath




I742.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         79
given to them that believe, "not the spirit of fear,
but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."
And by the spirit which now appeared through the
whole congregation, I plainly saw what a blessing it
is when it is given us, even in the lowest degree, to
suffer for his name's sake.
Lamentation and Mourning give place to Thanksgiving
and Praise.
Monday, Sept. 13. I preached, about nine, at Windsor, and the next evening came to Bristol. I spent
the remainder of this, and the following week, in
examining those of the society, speaking severally
to each, that I might more perfectly know the state
of their souls to Godward.
Thursday, Sept. 23. In the evening, almost as soon
as I begun to pray in the society, a voice of lamentation and bitter mourning was heard from the whole
congregation; but in a while loud thanksgivings were
mixed therewith, which in a short space spread over
all, so that nothing was to be heard on every side
but " Praise to God and the Lamb for ever and ever!"
Notes of Thanks.
Friday, Sept. 24. I had notes from nineteen persons, desiring to return God thanks. Some of them
follow:
"John Merriman, a blind man, desires to return
thanks to Almighty God for the discovery of his love
to him, an old sinner."  "One desires to return God
thanks for giving her a token of his love in removing all prejudices, and giving her love to all mankind."
"Edith W        desires to return thanks for great
and unspeakable mercies which the Lord was pleased




80          Wesley his Own Historian.      [1742.
to reveal to her heart, even telling me,' I am he that
blotteth out thy transgressions, and thy sins I will
remember no more.' And I desire that the praise
of the Lord may be ever in my heart."  "Ann Simmonds desires to return hearty thanks to God for the
great mercies she received last night, for she has a
full assurance of her redemption in the blood of
Christ."  "Mary K —  desires to return thanks to
God for giving her a fresh sense of her forgiveness."
"Mary F- desires to return thanks for that the
Lord hath made her triumph over sin, earth, and
hell."  "Mary W     n desires to return thanks to
Almighty God for a fresh sense of forgiveness."
"Sir,-I desire to return humble thanks to Almighty
God for the comfortable assurance of his pardoning
love.                               E. C."
Prophets Waiting for a Predicted Event.
Wednesday, Nov. 3. Two of those who are called
prophets desired to speak with me. They told me
they were sent from God with a message to me,
which was, that very shortly I should be born'd again.
One of them added, they would stay in the house
till it was done, unless' I turned them out. I answered,
gravely, " I will not turn you out," and showed them
down into the society-room.  It was tolerably cold,
and they had neither meat nor drink; however, there
they sat from morning to evening. They then went
quietly away, and I have heard nothing from them
since.
Wesley preaches in the midst of Storm and Tempest.
MIronday, Dec. 27. I rode to Horsley. The house
being too small, I was obliged again to preach in the




1742.]     kWesley his Own Historian.       8I
open air; but so furious a storm have I seldom known.
The wind drove upon us like a torrent, coming by
turns from east, west, north, and south; the straw
and thatch flew round our heads, so that one would
have imagined it could not be long before the house
must follow; but scarce any one stirred, much less
went away, till I dismissed them with the peace of
God.
Tuesday, Dec. 28. I preached in an open place at
Swalwell, two or three miles from Newcastle. The
wind was high, and extremely sharp; but I saw none
go away till I went. Yet I observed none that seemed
to be much convinced; only stunned, as if cut in
the head.
Wednesday, Dec. 29. After preaching (as usual) in
the Square, I took horse for Tanfield.  More than
once I was only not blown off my horse. However,
at three I reached the Leigh, and explained to a multitude of people the salvation which is through faith.
Afterward I met the society in a large upper room,
which rocked to and fro with the violence of the
storm. But all was calm within; and we rejoiced
together in hope of a kingdom which cannot be
moved.
Examination of Persons prostrated under Wesley's Preaching.
Thuirsday, Dec. 30. I carefully examined those who
had lately cried out in the congregation. Some of these,
I found, could give no account at all how or wherefore they had done so, only that of a sudden they
dropped down, they knew not.how, and what they
afterward said or did they knew not. Others' could
just remember they were in fear, but could not tell
6




82          Wesley his Own Historian.   [J742-43.
what they were in fear of. Several said they were
afraid of the devil, and this was all they knew.  But
a few gave a more intelligible account of the piercing
sense they then had of their sins, both inward and
outward, which were set in array against them round
about;-of the dread they were in of the wrath of
God, and the -punishment -they had deserved, into
which they seemed to be just falling, without any way
to escape. One of them told me, " I was as if I was
just falling down from the highest place I had ever
seen. I thought the devil was pushing me off, and
that God had forsaken me."  Another said, "I felt
the very fire of hell already kindled in my breast,
and all my body was in as'much pain as if I had
been in a burning fiery. furnace." What wisdom is
that which rebuketh these, that they "should hold
their peace!"  Nay, let such a one cry after Jesus
of Nazareth till he saith, "Thy faith hath made thee
whole,"
Saorament denied Mr. Wesley at Epworth,
Yanuary, 1743. In the evening I rode to Epworth.
Simnday, Yan. 2. At five I preached on, "So is
every one'that is'born of the Spirit."  About eight,
I preached from my father's tomb on Heb. viii, I I.
Many from the neighboring towns asked if it would
not be well, as it was sacrament Sunday, for them to
receive it. I told them, "By all means; but it would
be more respectful first to ask Mr. Romley, the
curate's leave."'One did so in the name of the rest,
to whom he said, "Pray tell Mr. Wesley I shall not
give him the sacrament, for he is not fit."  How
wise a God is our God! There could not have been
so fit a place under heaven, where this should befall




I743.]      Wesley his Own Historian.           83
me first, as my father's house, the place of my nativity,
and the very place where, "according to the straitest
sect of our religion," I had so long " lived a Pharisee! "
It was also fit, in the highest degree, that he who repelled me from that very table, where I had myself so
often distributed the bread of life, should be one who
owed his all in this world to the tender love which
my father had shown to his, as well as personally to
himself.
Two Noted Hearers differently affected.
Monday, yan. 24. I preached at Bath.  Some of
the rich and great were present, to whom, as to the
rest, I declared with all plainness of speech, I. That,
by nature, they were all children of wrath; 2. That
all their natural tempers were corrupt and abominable; 3. Also all their words and works, which could
never be any better but by faith; and that, 4. A
natural man has no more faith than a devil, if so
much.  One of them, my Lord  —, stayed very patiently till I came to the middle of the fourth head;
then, starting up, he said, "'Tis hot!'tis very hot,"
and got down stairs as fast as he could. Several of
the gentry desired to stay at the meeting of the society, to whom I explained the nature of inward
religion, words flowing upon me faster than I could
speak. One of them (a noted infidel) hung over the
next seat in an -attitude not to be described; and
when he went, left half a guinea with Mary Naylor
for the use of the poor.
Wesley preaches to the Colliers at Placey.
April I. (Being Good Friday,) I had a great desire
to visit a little village called Placey, about ten




84          Wesley his Own Historian.     [I743.
measured miles north of Newcastle.  It is inhabited
by colliers only, and such as had been always in
the first rank for savage ignorance and wickedness
of every kind. Their grand assembly used to be on
the Lord's day, on which men, women, and children
met together to dance, fight, curse, and s vear, and
play at chuck, ball, span-farthing, or whatever came
next to hand. I felt great compassion for these poor
creatures from the time I heard of them first; and
the more, because all me'n seemed to despair of them.
Between seven and eight I set out with John Heally,
my guide. The north wind being unusually high,
drove the sleet in our face, which froze as it fell, and
cased us over presently. When we came to Placey we
could very hardly stand. As soon as we were a little
recovered, I went into the Square and declared Him
who "was wounded for our transgressions " and
"bruised for our iniquities." The poor sinners were
quickly gathered together, and gave earnest heed to
the things which were spoken. And so they did in
the afternoon again, in spite of the wind and snow,
when I besought them to receive Him for their
King, to " repent and believe the Gospel." On Easter
Monday and Tuesday I preached there again, the
congregation continually increasing. And as most
of these had never in their lives pretended to
any religion of any kind, they were the more ready
to cry to God as mere sinners, for the redemption
which is in Jesus.
A Heavy Days' Work in London.
Sunday, May 29. (Being Trinity Sunday,) I began
officiating at the chapel in West-street, near the Seven




1743.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          85
Dials, of which (by a strange chain of providences)
we have a lease for several years.  I preached on
the Gospel for the day, part of the third chapter of
St. John and afterward administered the Lord's
Supper to some hundreds of communicants. I was
a little afraid at first that my strength would not
suffice for the business of the day, when a service of
five hours (for it lasted from ten to three) was added
to my usual employment. But God looked to that;
so I must think; and they that will call it enthusiasm
may. I preached at the Great Gardens, at five, to
an immense congregation, on "Ye must be born
again." Then the leaders met, (who filled all the
time that I was not speaking in public;) and after
them, the bands. At ten at night I was less weary
than at six in the morning. The following week I
spent in visiting the Society.
Sunday, 7une 5. The service of the chapel lasted
till near four in the afternoon; so that I found it
needful, for the time to come, to divide the communicants into three parts, that we might not have above
six hundred at once.
Wednesday, _June 8. I ended my course of visiting,
throughout which I found great cause to bless God,
so very few having drawn back to perdition out of
nineteen hundred and fifty souls!
Cause of the Riots in Staffordshire.
Saturday, 2Cune I8. I received a full account of the
terrible riots which had been in Staffordshire. I was
not surprised at all; neither should I have wondered
if, after the advices they have so often received from
the pulpit, as well as from the episcopal chair, the




86          Wesley his Own Historian.     [I743.
zealous high churchmen had rose and cut all that
were Methodists in pieces.
Monday, Yune 20. Resolving to assist them as far
as I could, I set out early in the morning; and
after preaching at Wycomb about noon, in the evening came to Oxford.
Tuesday, Yz7ne 2 T. We rode to Birmingham; and
in the morning, tVednesday, ftune 22, to Francis
Ward's, at Wednesbury.
Although I knew all that had been done here was
as contrary to law as it was to justice and mercy, yet
I knew not how to advise the poor sufferers, or to
procure them any redress. I was then little acquainted
with the English course of law, having long had
scruples concerning it. But, as many of these were
now removed, I thought it best to inquire whether
there could be any help from the laws of the land.
I therefore rode over to Counselor Littleton, at
Tamworth, who assured us we might have an easy
remedy if we resolutely prosecuted in the manner the
law directed those rebels against God and the king.
Wesley defeated by "the Newcastle Wretches."
Monday, Bigdy 4, and the following days, I had
time to finish the "Instructions for Children."
Sunday, 7/uly Io. I preached at eight on Chowden
Fell on'"Why will ye die, 0 house of Israel?"
Ever since I came to Newcastle the first time, my
spirit has been moved within me at the crowds of
poor wretches who were every Sunday, in the afternoon, sauntering to and fro on the Sand-hill. I
resolved, if possible, to find them a better employ;
and as soon as the service at All Saints was over,




I743.]     Wesley his Own Histoi ian.       87
walked straight from the church to the Sand-hill,
and gave out a verse of a psalm. In a few minutes
I had company enough, thousands upon thousands
crowding together.  But the prince of this world
fought with all his might, lest his kingdom should be
overthrown. Indeed, the very mob of Newcastle, in
the height'of their rudeness, have commonly some
humanity left. I scarce observed that they threw
any thing at all, neither did I receive the least personal hurt; but they continued thrusting one another
to and fro, making such a noise that my voice
could not be heard; so that, after spending near an
hour in singing and prayer, I thought it best to
adjourn to our own house.
Wesley Redeeming "Fragments of Time."
Monday, AUg. 22. After a few of us had joined in
prayer, I set out and rode softly to Snowhill, where,
the saddle slipping quite upon my mare's neck, I fell
over her head, and she ran back into Smithfield.
Some boys caught her and brought her to me again,
cursing and swearing all the way. I spoke plainly
to them, and they promised to amend. I was setting
forward, when a man cried, " Sir, you have lost your
saddle-cloth."  Two or three more would needs help
me to put it on; but these too swore at almost every
word. I turned to one and another, and spoke in love.
They all took it well, and thanked me much. I gave
them'two or three little books, which they promised
to read over carefully. Before I reached Kensington
I found my mare had lost a shoe. This gave me an
opportunity of talking closely, for near half an hour,
both to the smith and his servant. I mention these




88         Wiesley his Own Historian.     [1743.
little circumstances to show how easy it is to redeem
every fragment of time, (if I may so speak,) when
we feel any love to those souls for which Christ died.
Wesley Quells a Mob.
Friday, Sept. i6. I preached to four or five hundred
people on St. Hilary Downs, and many seemed
amazed. But I could find none, as yet, who had any
deep or lasting conviction. In the evening, as I was
preaching'at St. Ives Satan began to fight for his
kingdom. The mob of the town burst into the room
and created much disturbance, roaring and striking
those that stood in their way, as though Legion'himself possessed them. I would fain have persuaded
our people to stand still; but the zeal of some, and
the fear of others, had no ears; so that, finding the
uproar increase, I went into the midst and brought the
head of the mob up with me to the desk. I received
but one blow on the side of the head, after which we
reasoned the case, till he grew milder and milder, and
at length undertook to quiet his companions.
An Open Heart for all who love God.
Thursday, Sept. 22. As we were riding through a
village called Sticklepath one stopped me in the
street and asked abruptly, "Is thy name John
Wesley?"  Immediately two or three more came
up and told me I must stop there. I did so, and
before we had spoken many words our souls took
acquaintance with each other.  I found they were
called Quakers; but that hurt not me, seeing the
love of God was in their hearts.




I743.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         89
Personal Effort.
Monday, Sept. 26. I had a great desire to speak
plain to a young man who went with us over the New
Passage. To that end I rode with him three miles
out of my way, but I could fix nothing upon him.
Just as we parted, walking over Caerleon bridge, he
stumbled, and was like to fall. I caught him, and
began to speak of God's care over us. Immediately
the tears stood in his eyes, and he appeared to feel
every word which was said; so I spoke, and spared
not. The same I did to a poor man who had led
my horse over the bridge, to our landlord and his
wife, and to one who occasionally came in, and they
all expressed a surprising thankfulness.
Watchful over his Societies.
Monday, Oct. 3. I returned to Bristol, and employed
several days in examining and purging the Society,
which still consisted (after many were put away) of
more than seven hundred persons. The next week I
examined the Society in Kingswood, in which I found
but few things to reprove.
Saturday, Oct. I5. The leaders brought in what
had been contributed in their several classes toward
the public debt, and we found it was sufficient to
discharge it.
Mob at Wednesbury —A Thrilling Account.
Thursday, Oct. 20. I rode to Wednesbury. At
twelve I preached in a ground near the middle of
the town, to a far larger congregation than was
expected, on "Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and
to-day, and forever." I believe every one present felt




90o         Wesley his Own Historian.    [I743,
the power of God, and no creature offered to molest
us, either going or coming; but the Lord fought for
us, and we held our peace.
I was writing at Francis Ward's in the afternoon,
when the cry arose that the mob had beset the house.
We prayed that God would disperse them, and it was
so! One went this way, and another that, so that in
half an hour not a. man was left. I told our brethren
" now is the time for us to go," but they pressed me
exceedingly to stay.  So that I might not offend
them I sat down, though I foresaw what would
follow. Before five the mob surrounded the house
again, in greater numbers than ever. The cry of one
and all was, "bring out the minister; we will have
the minister." I desired one to take their captain by
the hand and bring him into the house. After a few
sentences interchanged between us the lion was
become a lamb. I desired him to go and bring one
or two more of the most angry of his companions.
He brought in two, who were ready to swallow the
ground with rage; but in two minutes they were as
calm as he. I then bade them make way, that I
might go out among the people. As soon as I was
in the midst of them I called for a chair; and, standing up, asked, "What do any of you want with me? "
Some said, "We want you to go with us to the
justice."  I replied, "That I will with all my heart."
I then spoke a few words, which God applied; so
that they cried out, with might and main, "The gentleman is an honest gentleman, and we will spill our
blood in his defense." I asked, " Shall we go to Sthe
justice to-night, or in the morning?"  Most of
them cried, "To-night! to-night!" on which I went




I743.]      WVesley his Own Historian.     9I
before, and two or three hundred followed, the rest
returning whence they came.
The night came on before we had walked a mile,
together with heavy rain. However, on we went to
Bentley Hall, two miles from WVednesbury. One or
two ran before to tell Mr. Lane they had brought Mr.
Wesley before his worship. Mr. Lane replied, " What
have I to do with Mr. Wesley? Go and carry him
back again." By this time the main body came up,
and began knocking at the door. A servant told them
Mr. Lane was in bed. His son followed, and asked
what was the matter.  One replied, "Why, an't
please you, they sing psalms all day; nay, and make
folks rise at five in the morning. And what would
your worship advise us to do?"  " To go home," said
Mr. Lane, "and be quiet."
Here they were at a full stop, till one advised to
go to Justice Persehouse, at Walsal. All agreed to
this; so we hastened on, and about seven came to
his house. But Mr. P. likewise sent word that he
was in bed. Now they were at a stand again, but
at last they all thought it the wisest course to make
the best of their way home. About fifty of them undertook to convoy me. But we had not gone a hundred yards when the mob of Walsal came, pouring in
like a flood, and bore down all before them. The
Darlaston mob made what defense they could; but
they were weary, as well as outnumbered, so that in
a short time, many being knocked down, the rest ran
away, and left me in their hands.
To attempt speaking was vain, for the noise on
every side was like the roaring of the sea. So they
dragged me along till we came to the town, where,




92         Wesley his Own Historian.    [I743.
seeing the door of a large house open, I attempted to
go in; but a man catching me by the hair pulled me:back into the middle of the mob. They made no
more stop till they had carried me through the main
street, from one end of the town to the other. I continued speaking all the time to those within hearing,
feeling no pain or weariness. At the west end of the
town, seeing a door half open, I made toward it, and
would have gone in; but a gentleman in the shop
would not suffer me, saying they would pull the house
down to the ground. However, I stood at the door
and asked, "Are you willing to hear me speak?"
Many cried out, "No, no! knock his brains out!
down with him! kill him at once!"  Others said,
"Nay, but we will hear him first."  I began asking,
"What evil have I done? which of you all have I
wronged in word or deed?" and continued speaking for above a quarter of an hour, till my voice suddenly failed: then the floods began to lift up their
voice again, many crying out, " Bring him away!
bring him away!"
In the meantime my strength and my voice returned, and I broke out aloud into prayer. And now
the man who just before headed the mob turned and
said, " Sir, I will spend my life for you: follow me,
and not one soul here shall touch a hair of your head."
Two or three of his fellows confirmed his words, and
got close to me immediately. At the same time the
gentleman in the shop cried out, " For shame! for
shame! Let him go." An honest butcher, who was
a little further off, said it was a shame they should
do thus, and pulled back four or five, one after
another, who were running on the most fiercely. The




1743.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        93
people then, as if it had been by common consent, fell
back to the right and left, while those three or four
men took me between them and carried me through
them all. But on the bridge the mob rallied again:
we therefore went on one side over the mill-dam, and
thence through the meadows till, a little before ten,
God brought me safe to Wednesbury, having lost
only one flap of my waistcoat and a little skin from
one of my hands. I never saw such a chain of providences before: so many convincing proofs that the
hand of God is on every person and thing, overruling
all as it seemeth him good.
The circumstances that follow, I thought, were
particularly remarkable: I. That many endeavored
to throw me down while we were going down hill on
a slippery path to the town; as well judging, that if
I was once on the ground I should hardly rise any
more. But I made no stumble at all, nor the least
slip, till I was entirely out of their hands. 2. That
although many strove to lay hold on my collar or
clothes to pull me down, they could not fasten at all;
only; one got fast hold of'the flap of my waistcoat,
which was soon left in his hand; the other flap, in
the pocket of which was a bank-note, was torn but
half off. 3. That a lusty man just behind struck at
me- several times with a large oaken stick, with which
if he had struck me once on the back part of my head
it would have saved him all further trouble. But
every time the blow was turned aside, I knew not
how, for I could not move to the right hand or left.
4. That another came rushing through the press, and
raising his arm to strike, on a sudden let it drop, and
only stroked my head, saying, "What soft hair he




94          Wesley his Own Historian.    [I743.
has! " 5. That I stopped exactly at the mayor's door, as
if I had known it, (which the mob thought I did,) and
found him standing in the shop, which gave the first
check to the madness of the people. 6. That the very
first men whose hearts were turned were the heroes of
the town, the captains of the rabble on all occasions, one
of them having been a prize-fighter at the bear-garden.
7. That, from first to last, I heard none give a reviling
word, or call me by any opprobrious name whatever;
but the cry of one and all was," The preacher! The
preacher! The parson! The minister!"  8. That no
creature, at least within my hearing, laid any thing
to my charge, either true or false; having in the
hurry quite forgot to provide themselves with an accusation of any kind. And, Lastly, That they were
as utterly at a loss what they should do with me,
none proposing any determinate thing; only, "Away
with him! Kill him at once!"
By how gentle degrees does God prepare us for his
will! Two years ago a piece of brick grazed my
shoulders. It was a year after that the stone struck
me between the eyes. Last month I received one
blow, and this evening two-one before we came into
the town, and one after we were gone out; but both
were as nothing: for though one man struck me on
the breast with all his might, and the other on the
mouth with such a force that the blood gushed out
immediately, I felt no more pain from either of the
blows than if they had touched me with a straw.
Narrow Escape from Drowning.
Saturday, Oct. 22. I rode from Nottingham to Epworth, and on Monday set out for Grimsby; but at




I743.]     WVesley his Ozewn Historian.     95
Ferry we were at a full stop, the boatmen telling
us we could not pass the Trent: it was as much as
our lives were worth to put from shore before
the storm abated. We waited an hour; but, being
afraid it would do much hurt if I should disappoint
the congregation at Gransby, I asked the men if they
did not think it possible to get to the other shore.
They said they could not tell; but if we would venture
our lives, they would venture theirs. So we put off,
having six men, two women, and three horses in the
boat. Many stood looking after us on the river-side,
in the middle of which we were, when, in an instant,
the side of the boat was under water, and the horses
and men rolling one over another. We expected the
boat to sink every moment, but I did not doubt of being able to swim ashore. The boatmen were amazed
as well as the rest; but they quickly recovered and
rowed for life. Soon after, our horses leaping overboard lightened the boat, and we came unhurt to land.
They wondered what was the matter I did not rise,
(for I lay along in the bottom of the boat,) and I
wondered too, till, upon examination, I found that a
large iron crow, which the boatmen sometimes used,
was (none knew how) run through the string of my
boot, which pinned me down that I could not stir;
so that if the boat had sunk, I should have been safe
enough from swimming any further. The same day,
and, as near as we can judge, the same hour, the boat
in which my brother was crossing the Severn, at the
New Passage, was carried away by the wind, and in
the utmost danger of splitting upon the rocks. But
the same God, when all human hope was past, delivered them as well as us.




96           Wesley his Own Historian.       [I743A High Debate and a Profound Decision,
Sunday, Oct. 30. Mr. Clayton read prayers, and I
preached on "What must I do to be saved?"  I
showed, in the plainest words I could devise, that
mere outside religion would not bring us to heaven;
that none could go thither without inward holiness,
which was only to be attained by faith. As I went
back through the church-yard, many of the parish
were in high debate what religion this preacher was
of.  Some said, " He must be a Quaker;" others,
"an Anabaptist;" but, at length, one deeper learned
than the rest brought them all clearly over to his
opinion, that he was a Presbyterian Papist.
Methodism Carioatured on the Stage.
Monday, Oct. 3I. We set out early in the morning,
and in the evening came to Newcastle.
WVednesday, Nov. 2. The following advertisement
was published:
FOR THE BENEFIT OF MR. ESTE.
By the Edinburgh Company of Comedians, on Friday, November 4,
will be acted a Comedy called
THE CONSCIOUS LOVERS;
To which will be added a Farce called
TRICK UPON-TRICK; OR, METHODISM DISPLAYED.
On Friday a vast multitude of spectators were
assembled in the Moot Hall to see this. It was believed there could not be less than fifteen hundred
people, some hundreds of whom sat on rows of seats
built upon the stage. Soon after the comedians had
begun the first act of the play, on a sudden all those
seats fell down at once, the supporters of them break



r743-44.]   Wesley his Own Historian.         97
ing like a rotten stick. The people were thrown one
upon another, about five foot forward, but not one of
them hurt. After a short time the rest of the spectators were quiet, and the actors went on. In the
middle of the second act, all the shilling seats gave a
crack and sunk several inches down. A great noise
and shrieking followed, and as many as could readily
get to the door went out and returned no more.
Notwithstanding this, when the noise was over the
actors went on with the play. In the beginning of
the third act the entire stage suddenly sunk about
six inches: the players retired with great precipitation, yet in a while they began again. At the latter
end of the third act all the sixpenny seats, without any
kind of notice, fell to the ground. There was now a
cry on every side, it being supposed that many were
crushed in pieces; but, upon inquiry, not a single
person (such was the mercy of God!) was either killed
or dangerously hurt. Two or three hundred remaining still in the Hall, Mr. Este (who was to act the
Methodist) came upon the stage and told them, for all
this, he was resolved the farce should be acted. While
he was speaking, the stage sunk six inches more; on
which he ran back in the utmost confusion, and the
people as fast as they could out of the door, none
staying to look behind him. Which is most surprising, that those players acted this farce the next
week, or that some hundreds of people came again
to see it?
Care for the Poor.
Friday, Feb. I7, I744, we observed as a day of
solemn fasting and prayer., In the afternoon, many
being met together, I exhorted them, now, while they
7




98          Wesley his Own Historian.    [I744.
had opportunity, to make to themselves "friends of
the mammon of unrighteousness," to deal their bread
to the hungry, to clothe the naked, and not to hide
themselves from their own flesh. And God opened
their hearts so that they contributed near fifty pounds,
which I began laying out the very next hour in linen,
woollen, and shoes for them whom I knew to be
diligent and yet in want.
Mistakes Rectified.
Feb. I7. In the Whitehall and London Evening
Post, Saturday, February I8, was a paragraph with
some mistakes which it may not be amiss to rectify.
"By a private letter from Staffordshire we have advice of an insurrection of the people called Methodists,"-the insurrection was not of the people called
Methodists, but against them, -"who upon some
pretended insults from the Church party,"-they pretended no insults from  the Church party, being
themselves no other than true members of the Church
of England; but were more than insulted by a mixed
multitude of church-goers, (who seldom, if ever, go
near a church,) D.issenters, and Papists,-" have assembled themselves in a riotous manner." Here is
another small error personae. Many hundreds of the
mob did assemble themselves in a riotous manner,
having given public notice several days before (particularly by a paper set up in Walsal market-place)
that on Shrove Tuesday they intended to come and
destroy the Methodists, and inviting all the country
to come and join them. "And having committed
several outrages,"-without ever committing any,
they have suffered all manner of outrages for several




1744.]      Wsvley his Own Historian.         99
months past,-" they proceeded at last to burn the
house of one of their adversaries."  Without burning
any house or making any resistance, some hundreds
of them, on Shrove Tuesday last, had their own
houses broken up, their windows, window-cases, beds,
tools, goods of all sorts, broke all to pieces, or taken
away by open violence; their live goods driven off,
themselves forced to fly for their lives, and most of
them stripped of-all they had in the world.
John Nelson Impressed for a Soldier.
May 15. After comforting the little flock at Norton,
I rode the shortest way to Birstal. Here I found our
brethren partly mourning and partly rejoicing on
account of John Nelson. On Friday, the 4th instant,
(they informed me,) the constables took him just as
he had ended his sermon at Adwalton, and the next
day carried him before the Commissioners at Halifax,
the most active of whom was Mr. Coleby, Vicar of
Birstal. Many were ready to testify that he was in
no respect such a person as the Act of Parliament
specified. But they were not heard.'He was a
preacher: that was enough. So he was sent for a
soldier at once.
A Chancery Bill!
Thursday, Dec. 27. I called on the solicitor whom
I had employed in the suit lately commenced against
me in chancery, and here I first saw that foul monster, a chancery bill!  A scroll it was of forty-two
pages, in large folio, to tell a story which needed not
to have taken up forty lines! And stuffed with such
stupid, senseless, improbable lies, many of them, too,
quite foreign to the question, as, I believe, would have




I00         Wesley his Own Historian.  [I744-45.
cost the compiler his life in any heathen court either
of Greece or Rome. And this is equity in a Christian country! This is the English method of redressing other grievances!
Ten Thousand Cares of Little Weight,
Saturday, /an., 1745. I had often wondered at myself, and sometimes mentioned it to others, that ten
thousand cares of various kinds were no more weight or
burden to my mind than ten thousand hairs were to my
head. Perhaps I began to ascribe something of this
to my own strength. And thence it might be that
on Sunday, 13, that strength was withheld, and I felt
what it was to be troubled about many things. One
and another hurrying me continually, it seized upon
my spirit more and more, till I found it absolutely
necessary to fly for my life, and that ivithout delay.
So the next day, Monday, I4, I took horse and rode
away for Bristol. Between Bath and Bristol, I was
earnestly desired to turn aside and call at the house
of a poor man, William Shalwood.  I found him and
his wife sick in one bed, and with small hope of the
recovery of either. Yet, after prayer, I believed they
would " not die but live, and declare the loving kindness of the Lord." The next time I called he was
sitting below stairs, and his wife able to go abroad.
As soon as we came into the house at Bristol my
soul was lightened of her load, of that insufferable
weight, which had lain upon my mind more or less
for several days.
A Rough Journey.
Friday, Feb. 22. There was so much snow about
Boroughbridge that we could go on but very slowly;




I745.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          IOI
insomuch that the night overtook us when we
wanted six or seven miles to the place where we designed to lodge. But we pushed on at a venture
across the moor, and about eight came safe to
Sandhutton.
Saturday, Feb. 23. We found the roads abundantly
worse than they had been the day before, not only
because the snows were deeper, which made the
causeways in many places unpassable, (and turnpike
roads were not known in these parts of England till
some years after,) but likewise because the hard frost
succeeding the thaw had made all the ground like
glass.  We were often obliged to walk, it being impossible to ride, and our horses several times fell
down while we were leading them, but not once while
we were riding them, during the whole journey. It
was past eight before we got to Gateshead Fell,
which appeared a great pathless waste of white. The
snow filling up and covering all the roads, we were
at a loss how to proceed, when an honest man of
Newcastle overtook and guided us safe into town.
Many a rough journey have I had before, but one
like this I never had; between wind, and hail, and
rain, and ice, and snow, and driving sleet, and piercing cold! but it is past; these days will return no
more, and are therefore as though they had never
been.
Pain, disappointment, sickness, strife,
Whate'er molests or troubles life,
However grievous in its stay,
It shakes the tenement of clay,
When past, as nothing we esteem;
And pain, like pleasure, is a dream.




I02         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1745.
A Clear Statement of the Case between Wesley and the Clergy
Sunday, March Io. We had a useful sermon at All
Saints, and another at our own church in the afternoon. I was much refreshed by both, and united in
love to the two preachers and to the clergy in general. The next day I wrote to a friend as follows:
NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, Iarch  II, I745.
I have been drawing up this morning a short state
of the case between the clergy and us. I leave you
to make any such use of it as you believe will be to
the glory of God.
"I. About seven years since we began preaching
-inward, present salvation, as attainable by faith alone.
2. For preaching this doctrine we were forbidden to
preach in the churches.  3. We then preached in
private houses, as occasion offered; and when the
houses could not contain the people, in the open air.
4. For this many of the clergy preached or printed
against us, as both heretics and schismatics.  5. Per~sons who were convinced of sin begged us to advise
them more particularlyh ow to flee from the wrath to
come. We replied, if they would all come at one
time (for they were numerous) we would endeavor it.
6. For this we were represented, both from the pul.
pit and the press, (we have heard it -with our ears,
and seen it with our eyes,) as introducing Popery,
raising sedition, practicing both against Church and
State; and all manner of evil was publicly said both
of us, and those who were accustomed to meet with
us. 7. Finding some truth herein, namely, that some
of those who so met together walked disorderly, we
immediately desired them not to come to us any more.




1745.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       1o3
8. And the more steady were desired to overlook the
rest, that we might know if they walked according to
the Gospel. 9. But now several of the Bishops began to speak against us, either in conversation or in
public. Io. On this encouragement, several of the
clergy stirred up the people to treat us as outlaws or
mad dogs. II. The people did so, both in Staffordshire, Cornwall, and many other places. I2. And
they do so still, wherever they are not restrained by
their fear of the secular magistrate.
Thus the case stands at present. Now, what can we
do, or what can you our brethren do, toward healing
this breach? which is highly desirable, that we may
withstand, with joint force, the still increasing flood
of Popery, Deism, and immorality. Desire of us any
thing we can do with a safe conscience, and we will
do it immediately. Will you meet us here?  Will
you do what we desire of you, so far as you can, with
a safe conscience?
"Let us come to particulars. Do you desire us,
I. To preach another, or to desist from preaching
this, doctrine? We think you do not desire it, as
knowing we cannot do this with a safe conscience.
Do you desire us, 2. To desist from preaching in
private houses or in the open air? As things are
now circumstanced, this would be the same as desiring us not to preach at all. Do you desire us, 3. To
desist from advising those who now meet together
for that purpose? or, in other words, to dissolve
our societies? We cannot do this with a safe conscience, for we apprehend many souls would be lost
thereby, and that God would require their blood at
our hands. Do you desire us, 4. To advise them




1o4         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I745.
only one by one? This is impossible because of
their number. Do you desire us, 5. To suffer those
who walk disorderly still to mix with the rest? Neither can we do this with a safe conscience, because'evil communications corrupt good manners.' Do
you desire us, 6. To discharge those leaders of bands
or classes (as we term them) who overlook the rest?
This is, in effect, to suffer the disorderly walkers still
to mix with the rest, which we dare not do. Do you
desire us, Lastly, To behave with reverence toward
those who are overseers of the Church of God? And
with, tenderness, both to the character and persons
of our brethren, the inferior clergy? By the grace
of God we can and will do this. Yea, our conscience
beareth us witness that we have already labored so
to do, and that at all times and in all places.
"If you ask what we desire of you to do, we answer,
i. We do not desire any one of you to let us preach
in your church, either if you believe us to preach
false doctrine, or if you have, upon any other ground,
the least scruple of conscience concerning it. But
we desire any who believes us to preach true doctrine,
and has no scruple at all in this matter, may not be
either publicly or privately discouraged from inviting
us to preach in his church.
" 2. We do not desire that any one who thinks that
we are heretics or schismatics, and that it is his duty
to preach or print against us as such, should refrain
therefrom so long as he thinks it his duty. (Although in this case the breach can never be healed.)
But we desire that none will pass such a sentence
till he has calmly considered both sides of the question; that he would not condemn us unheard; but




1745.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        I05
first read what we have written, and pray earnestly
that God may direct him in the right way.
" 3. We do not desire any favor, if either Popery,
sedition, or immorality be proved against us. But
we desire you will not credit, without proof, any of
those senseless tales that pass current with the vulgar. That if you do not credit them yourselves, you
will not relate them to others, (which we have known
done;) yea, that you will confute them so far as ye
have opportunity, and discountenance those who still
retail them abroad.
"4. We do not desire any preferment, favor, or
recommendation from those that are in authority,
either in Church or State; but we desire, (I.) That
if any thing material be laid to our charge, we may
be permitted to answer for ourselves.  (2.) That you
would hinder your dependents from stirring up the
rabble against us, who are certainly not the proper
judges of these matters. And, (3.) That you would
effectually suppress, and thoroughly discountenance,
all riots and popular insurrections, which evidently
strike at the foundation of all government, whether
of Church or State.  Now these things you certainly
can do, and that with a safe conscience. Therefore,
till these things are done, the continuance of the
breach is chargeable on you, and you only."
Water-Power and Voice-Power Antagonized.
Sunday, April 28. I preached at five, (as I had
done overnight,) about a mile from Altringham, on
"Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation."
A plain man came to me afterward and said, " Sir, I
find Mr. Hutchings and you do not preach the same




Io6         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I745.
way. You bid us read the Bible, and pray, and go
to church; but he bids us let all this alone, and
says, if we go to church and sacrament we shall
never come to Christ." At nine I preached, near
Stockport, to a large congregation; thence we rode to
Bongs, in Derbyshire, a lone house on the side of a
high, steep mountain, whither abundance of people
were got before us. I preached on God's justifying
the ungodly, and his word was as dew upon the
tender herb. At five I preached at Mill Town, near
Chapel-en-le-Frith. The poor miller, near whose
pond we stood, endeavored to drown my voice by
letting out the water, which fell with a great noise.
But it was labor lost; for my-strength was so increased that I was heard to the very skirts of the
congregation.
Exhorted to Return to the Church
Thursday, May 23. We had one more conversation
with one that had often strengthened our hands, but
now earnestly exhorted us (what is man!) to return
to the Church, to renounce all our lay assistants, to
dissolve our societies, to leave off field-preaching,
and to accept of honorable preferment.
Insufferable Impudence.
Tuesday,.une 25. We rode to St. Just. I preached
at seven to the largest congregation I have seen since
my coming. At the meeting of the earnest, loving
society, all our hearts were in a' flame; and again at
five in the morning, while I explained, " There is no
condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus."
When the preaching was ended the constable apprehended Edward Greenfield, (by a warrant from Dr.




I745-46.]   Wesley his Own Historian.       I07
Borlase,) a tinner, in the forty-sixth year of his age,
having a wife and seven children. Three years ago
he was eminent for cursing, swearing, drunkenness,
and all manner of wickedness; but those old things
had been for some time passed away, and he was
then remarkable for a quite contrary behavior. I
asked a little gentleman at St. Just what objection
there was to Edward Greenfield.  He said, "Why,
the man is well enough in other things, but his impudence the gentlemen cannot bear.  Why, sir, he
says he knows his sins are forgiven!"  And for this
cause he is adjudged to banishment or death!
Wesley Walks through the Mob.
Thursday, Yuly 4, I746. I rode to Falmouth.
About three in the afternoon I went to see a gentlewoman who had been long indisposed. Almost as
soon as I was set down, the house was beset on all
sides by an innumerable multitude of people. A
louder or more confused noise could hardly be at the
taking of a city by storm.  At first Mrs. B. and her
daughter endeavored to quiet them. But it was labor lost. They might as well have attempted to still
the raging of the sea. They were soon glad to shift
for themselves, and leave K. E. and me to do as well
as we could. The rabble roared with all their throats,
" Bring out the Canorum! Where is the Canorum?"
(an unmeaning word which the Cornish generally
use instead of Methodist.) No anwer being given,
they quickly forced open the door and filled the passage. Only a wainscot partition was between us,
which was not likely to stand long. I immediately
took down a large looking glass which hung against




Io8        Wesley his Own Historian.     [1746.
it, supposing the whole side would fall in at once.
When they began their work with abundance of bitter imprecations poor Kitty was utterly astonished,
and cried out, "0, sir, what must we do?" I said,
"We must pray." Indeed, at that time, to all appearance, our lives were not worth an hour's purchase.
She asked, "But, sir, is it not better for you to hide
yourself? to get into the closet?"  I answered,
"No. It is best for me to stand just where I am."
Among those without were the crews of some privateers, which were lately come into the harbor.
Some of these being angry at the slowness of the
rest, thrust them away, and, coming up all together,.
set their shoulders to the inner door and cried out,
"Avast, lads, avast!"  Away went all the hinges at
once, and the door fell back into the room. I stepped
forward at once into the midst of them, and said,
"Here I am. Which of you has any thing to say to
me? To which of you have I done any wrong? To
you? Or you? Or you?" I continued speaking,
till I came, bare-headed as I was, (for I purposely left
my hat, that they all might see my face,) into the
middle of the street, and then raising my voice, said,
"Neighbors, countrymen!  Do you desire to hear
me speak?" They cried vehemently, " Yes, yes. He
shall speak! He shall! Nobody shall hinder him."
But having nothing to stand on, and no advantage
of ground, I could be heard by few only. However,
I spoke without intermission, and, as' far as the sound
reached, the people were still; till one or two of their
captains turned about and swore not a man should
touch him. Mr. Thomas, a clergyman, then came up
and asked, "Are you not ashamed to use a stranger




I746.]     Wesley his Own Historian.      Io9
thus?" He was soon seconded by two or three gentlemen of the town, and one of the aldermen, with
whom I walked down the town, speaking all the time,
till I came to Mrs. Maddern's house. The gentlemen proposed sending for my horse to the door, and
desired me to step in and rest the meantime.  But
on second thoughts, they judged it not advisable to
let me go out among the people again; so they chose
to send my horse before me to Penryn, and to send
me thither by water, the sea running close by the
backdoor of the house in which we were.
Count Zinzendoff's Prophecy.
Friday, Sept. 6. Many of our friends were grieved
at the advertisement which James Hutton had just
published, by order of Count Zinzendorf, declaring
that he and his people had no connection with Mr.
John and Charles Wesley.  But I believed that
declaration would do us no more harm than the
prophecy which the Count subjoined to it-that we
should soon run our heads against the wall. We will
not if we can help it.
Wesley leaves his Horse in the Quagmire.
Saturday, Nov. 9. In the evening we came to
Penkridge, and light on a poor drunken, cursing,
swearing landlord, who seemed scarce to think there
was either God or devil. But I had spoke very little
when his countenance changed, and he was so full of
his thanks and blessings that I could hardly make
an end of my sentence. May salvation come to this
house also! It was exceeding dark when we rode
through Bilston. However, we did not stick fast till
we came to Wednesbury town-end. Several coming




I-IO       Wlesley his Own Historian.   [1745-46.
with candles, I got out of the quagmire; and, leaving
them to disengage my horse, walked to Francis
Ward's, and preached on, " Fear not ye; for I know
ye seek him that was crucified."
A Distributer of Tracts.
December. We had within a short time given away
some thousands of little tracts among the common
people, and it pleased God hereby to provoke others
to jealousy, insomuch that the Lord Mayor had ordered a large quantity of papers, dissuading from cursing and swearing, to be printed and distributed to
the train-bands. And this day "An Earnest Exhortation to Serious Repentance" was given at every
church door in or near London to every person who
came out, and one left at the house of every householder who was absent from church. I doubt not
but God gave a blessing therewith. And perhaps
then the sentence of desolation was recalled. It was
on this very day that the Duke's army was so remarkably preserved in the midst of the ambuscades at
Clifton Moor. The rebels fired many volleys upon
the King's troops from the hedges and walls, behind
which they lay. And yet, from first to last, only ten
or twelve men fell, the shot flying over their heads.
Wesley Insists on the Right of Private Judgment,
Yune 7, I 746. In the afternoon an old friend (now with
the Moravians) labored much to convince me that I
could not continue in the Church of England, because
I could not implicitly submit to her determinations;
"for this," he said, "was essentially necessary to the
continuing in any Church." Not to the continuing in
any but that of the Brethren; if it were, I could be a




I746.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        I I I
member of no Church under heaven. For I must still
insist on the right of private judgment. I dare call no
man Rabbi. I cannot yield either implicit faith or obedience to any man or number of men under heaven.
Wesley's Plan for Relieving the Industrious Poor.
Thursday, zuly I7. I finished the little collection
which I had made among my friends for a lending
stock: it did not amount to thirty pounds, which a
few persons afterward made up to fifty. And by this
inconsiderable sum above two hundred and fifty persons were relieved in one year.
His rule always to look a Mob in the Face.
Weduesday, Aug. 6. I preached at Oak Hill. How is
this? I have not known so many persons earnestly
mourning after God, of any society of this size in
England, and so unblamable in their behavior; and
yet not one person has found a sense of the pardoning love of God from the first preaching here to this
day! When I mentioned this to the society there
was such a mourning as one would believe shouldpierce the clouds. My voice was quickly drowned.
We continued crying to God with many loud and
bitter cries, till I was constrained to break away, between four and five, and take horse for Shepton.
Here the good curate (I was informed) had hired a
silly man, with a few other drunken champions, to
make a disturbance. Almost as soon as I began,
they began screaming out a psalm; but our singing
quickly swallowed up theirs. Soon after, their orator
named a text, and (as they termed it) preached a
sermon; his attendants meantime being busy (not
in hearing him, but) in throwing stones and dirt at




I 12       Wesley his Own Historian.   [1746-47.
our brethren-those of them, I mean, who were
obliged to stand at the door. When I had done
preaching I would have gone out to them, it being
my rule, confirmed by long experience, always to look
a mob in the face; but our people took me up, whether
I would or no, and carried me into the house. The
rabble melted away in a quarter of an hour, and we
walked home in peace.
A Faithful Mayor.
Friday, Sept. 26. Mr. B. went to the Mayor and
said, "Sir, I come to inform against a common
swearer. I believe he swore a hundred oaths last
night, but I marked down only twenty."  "Sir,"
said the Mayor, "you do very right in bringing him
to justice. What is his name?"  He replied, "R. D."
" R. D.?" answered the Mayor; "why, that is my
son "-" Yes, sir," said Mr. B., " so I understand."" Nay sir," said he, " I have nothing to say in his defense. If he breaks the law he must take what follows."
Wesley Employs his Pen for Children.
MIonday, Dec. I5. Most of this week I spent at
Lewisham in writing " Lessons for Children," consisting of the most practical Scriptures, with a very
few short explanatory notes.
A Remarkable Escape.
Wednesday, yan. 14, I747. I- rode on to Bristol,
and spent a week in great peace.
Thursday, 7an. 22. About half-hour after twelve I
took horse for Wick, where I had appointed to preach
at three. I was riding by the wall through St. Nicho



1747.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       113
las Gate (my horse having been brought to the house
where I dined) just-as a cart turned short from St.
Nicholas-street, and came swiftly down the hill. There
was just room to pass between the wheel of it and the
wall, but that space was taken up by the cartman.
I called him to go back, or I must ride over him; but
the man, as if deaf, walked straight forward. This
obliged me to hold back my horse. In -the meantime
the shaft of the cart came full against his shoulder
with such a shock as beat him to the ground. He
shot me forward over his head, as an arrow out of a
bow, where I lay with my arms and legs, I know not
how, stretched out in a line close to the wall. The
wheel ran by close to my side, but only dirted my
clothes. I found no flutter of spirit, but the same
composure as if I had been sitting in my study.
When the cart was gone I rose. Abundance of people
gathered round, till a gentleman desired me to step
into his shop. After cleaning myself a little I took
horse again, and was at Wick by the time appointed.
I returned to Bristol (where the report of my being
killed had spread far and wide) time enough to praise
God in the great congregation, and to preach on
"Thou, Lord, shalt save both man and beast."  My
shoulders, and hands, and side, and both my legs,
were a little bruised; my knees something more; my
right thigh the most, which made it a little difficult
to me to walk; but some warm treacle took away all
the pain in an hour, and the lameness in a day or two.
Wesley's Endurance in Traveling.
Tuesday, Feb. Io. My brother returned from the
north, and I prepared to supply his place there.
8




I 14       Wesley his Own Historian.     [I747.
Sunday, 15. I was very weak and faint; but on
Mlonday, i6, I rose soon after three, lively and strong,
and found all my complaints were fled away like a
dream. I was wondering, the day before, at the mildness of the weather; such as seldom attends me in
my journeys. But my wonder now ceased: the wind
was turned full north, and blew so exceeding hard and
keen, that when we came to Hatfield neither my companions nor I had much use of our hands or feet.
After resting an hour we bore up again through the
wind and snow,- which drove full in our faces. But
this was only a squall. In Baldock-field the storm
began in earnest. The large hail drove so vehemently
in our faces that we could not see, nor hardly breathe.
However, before two o'clock we reached Baldock,
where one met and conducted us safe to Totten.
An Honest but Muddy Mind.
Friday, 27. Honest muddy M. B. conducted me to
his house at Acomb. I now found out (which I could
not comprehend before) what was the matter with
him. He, and one or two more, since I saw them
last, had been studying the profound Jacob Behmen.
The event was, (as might easily have been foreseen,)
he had utterly confounded their intellects, and filled
them so full of sublime speculations that they had left
Scripture and common sense far behind.
A Pulpit cordially Offered.
Sunday, March I. I came to Osmotherly about ten
o'clock, just as the minister (who lives some miles off)
came into town. I sent my service to him, and told
him, if he pleased, I would assist him, either by read



I747.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       I  5
ing prayers or preaching. On receiving the message
he came to me immediately, and said he would willingly accept of my assistance. As we walked to
church he said, " Perhaps it would fatigue you too
much to read prayers and preach too." I told him
no; I would choose it if he pleased; which I did
accordingly. After service was ended Mr. D. said,
" Sir, I am sorry I have not a house here to entertain
you. Pray let me know whenever you come this
way." Several asking where I would preach in the
afternoon, one went to Mr. D. again and asked if hwas willing I should preach in the church. He said,
"Yes, whenever Mr. Wesley pleases."  We had a
large congregation at three o'clock. Those who in
time past had been the most bitter gainsayers seemed
now to be melted into love. All were convinced we
are no Papists. How wisely does God order all things
in their season!
Wesley Instructs Young Men.
Wednesday, March 4. This week I read over with
some young men a compendium of rhetoric, with a
system of ethics. I see not why a man of tolerable
understanding may not learn in six months' time more
of solid philosophy than is commonly learned at Oxford in four (perhaps seven) years.
Wesley's Method of Examining Leaders,
March 8. On Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday I examined the classes. I had been often told it was
impossible for me to distinguish the precious from
the vile without the miraculous discernment of
spirits. But I now saw more clearly than ever that this




If 6        Wesley his Own Historian.      [I747.
might be done, and without much difficulty, supposing only two things: First, Courage and steadiness
in the examiner. Secondly, Common sense and common honesty in the leader of each class. I visit, for
instance, the class in the close, of which Robert Peacock is leader.  I ask, " Does this and this person in
your class live in drunkenness, or any outward -sin?
Does he go to church, and use, the other means of
grace? Does he meet you as often as he has opportunity?" Now, if Robert Peacock has common sense
he can answer these questions truly; and if he has
common honesty he will. And if not, some other in
the class has both, and can and will answer for him.
Where is the difficulty, then, of finding out if there be
any disorderly walker in this class, and,' consequently,
in any other? The question is not concerning the
heart, but the life. And the general tenor of this I
do not say cannot be known, but cannot be hid without a miracle.
What Mr. Wesley would do if he had but two days to live.
Thursday, Moarch, I9. I considered, "What would
I do now if I was sure I had but two days to live?"
All outward things are settled to my wish: the houses
at Bristol, Kingswood, and Newcastle are safe; the
deeds whereby they are conveyed to the trustees, took
place on the 5th instant; my will is made; what have
I more to do, but to commend my soul to my merciful and faithful Creator?
Christians may vindicate themselves.
Friday, April Io. Having settled all the Societies
in the country, I began examining that at Newcastle




I 747.]    WVesley his Own Historian.      I 7
again. It was my particular concern to remove, if
possible, every hinderance of brotherly love, and one
odd one I found creeping in upon us which had
already occasioned much evil, namely, a fancy that
we must not justify ourselves. (Some of the spawn
of Mystic divinity.) Just contrary to the scriptural
injunction, "Be ready to give a reason of the hope
that is in you." For want of doing this in time some
offenses were now grown incurable. I found it needful,
therefore, to tear up-this by the roots, to explain this
duty from the foundation, and to require all who
desired to remain with us to justify themselves
whenever they were blamed unjustly, and not to
swallow up both peace and love in their voluntary
humility.
John Nelson Assaulted and left for Dead.
April 20. John Nelson met me at Osmotherly.
On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday he had preached
at Acomb and the neighboring places; on Good
Friday in particular, on Heworth Moor, to a large
and quiet congregation. On Easter Sunday, at eight,
he preached there again to a large number of serious
hearers. Toward the close of his discourse a mob
came from York, hired and headed by some (miscalled)
gentlemen. They stood still till an eminent Papist
cried out, " Why do not you knock the dog's brains
out?"  On which they immediately began throwing
all that came to hand, so that the congregation was
quickly dispersed.  John spoke a few words, and
walked toward York. They followed with showers
of bricks and stones, one of which struck him on
the shoulder, one on the back, and, a little before he




II8        Wesley his Own Historian.    [I 747.
came to the city, part of a brick hit him on the back
part of the head and felled him to the ground. When
he came to himself, two of Acomb lifted him up and
led him forward between them. The gentlemen followed, throwing as before, till he came to the city
gate, near which lived an honest tradesmen, who took
him by the arm and pulled him into his house. Some
of the rioters swore they would break all his windows
if he did not turn him out. But he told them resolutely,
" I will not; and let any of you touch my house at
your peril; I shall make you remember it as long as
you live." On this they thought good to retire.
After a surgeon had dressed the wound in his
head, John went softly on to Acomb. About five
he went out in order to preach, and began singing a
hymn. Before it was ended, the same gentlemen
came in a coach from York with a numerous attendance. They threw clods and stones so fast on every
side that the congregation soon dispersed. John
walked down into a little ground not far from Thomas
Slaton's house. Two men quickly followed, one of
whom swore desperately he would have his life, and
he seemed to be in good earnest.  He struck him
several times with all his force on the head and
breast, and at length threw him down, and stamped
upon him till he left him for dead. But, by the
mercy of God, being carried into a house, he soon
came to himself, and after a night's rest was so
recovered that he was able to ride to Osmotherly.
A Far-reaching Argument.
Tuesday, April 2I. I called at Thirsk; but, finding
the town full of holiday folks, drinking, cursing,




1747.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       II19
swearing, and cock-fighting, I did not stop at all,
but rode on to Boroughbridge, and in the afternoon
to Leeds.
Wednesday, April 22. I spent an hour with Mr.
M., and pressed him to make good his assertion, that
our preaching had done more harm than good. This
he did not choose to pursue, but enlarged on the
harm it might occasion in succeeding generations. I
cannot see the force of this argument. I dare not
neglect the doing certain, present good for fear of
some probable ill in the succeeding century.
Mr. Wesley's first Street-Preaching in Manchester,
May. We came to Manchester between one and
two. I had no thought of preaching here till I was
informed John Nelson had given public notice that I
would preach at one o'clock. I was now in a great
strait. Their house would not contain a tenth part
of the people; and how the unbroken spirits of so
large a town would endure preaching in the street I
knew not. Besides that, having rode a swift trot for
several hours, and in so sultry a day, I was both faint
and weary. But, after considering that I was not
going a warfare at my own cost, I walked straight to
Salford Cross. A numberless crowd of people partly
ran before, partly followed after me. I thought it
best not to sing, but, looking round, asked abruptly,
"Why do you look as if you had never seen me
before? Many of you have seen me in the neighboring church, both preaching and administering the
sacrament."  I then began, "Seek ye the Lord
while he may be found; call upon him while he is
near,"  None interrupted at all or made any disturb



120        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I747.
ance till, as I was drawing to a conclusion, a big man
thrust in, with three or four more, and bade them
bring out the engine. Our friends desired me to
remove into a yard just by, which I did, and concluded in peace.  About six we reached Davy
Hulme, five miles from Manchester, where I was
much refreshed both in preaching and meeting the
society. Their neighbors here used to disturb them
much; but a Justice of Peace, who feared God, granting them a warrant for the chief of the rioters, from
that time they were in peace,
A Brave Defender.
Saturday, rune 27. I preached at four, and then
spoke severally to part of the society. As yet I have
found only one person among them who knew the
love of God before my brother came. No wonder
the devil was so stil, for his goods were in peace.
About six in the evening I went to the place where I
preached last year. A little before we had ended
the hymn came the lieutenant,,a famous man, with
his retinue of soldiers, drummers, and mob. When
the drums ceased a gentleman-barber began to speak;
but his voice was quickly drowned in the shouts of the
multitude, who grew fiercer and fiercer as their numbers increased. After waiting about a quarter of an
hour, perceiving the violence of the rabble still increasing, I walked down into the thickest of them and took
the captain of the mob by the hand. He immediately
said, "Sir, I will see you safe home. Sir, no man
shall touch you.  Gentlemen, stand off! give back!
I will knock the first man down that touches him."
We walked on in great peace, my conductor every




[ 1747.    Wesley his Own Historian.       121
now and then stretching out his neck (he was a very
tall man) and looking round, to see if any behaved
rudely, till we came to Mr. Hide's door. We then
parted in much love. I stayed in the street near half
an hour after he was gone talking with the people,
who had now forgot their anger, and went away in
high good humor.
Paid Voters Return the Money.
WlVednesday,  duly I. I spoke severally to all those
who had votes in the ensuing election. I found them
such as I desired.  Not one would even eat or drink
at the expense of him for whom he voted. Five
guineas had been given to W. C., but he returned
them immediately. T. M. positively refused to accept
any thing; and when he heard that his mother had
received money privately he could not rest till she
gave him the three guineas, which he instantly sent
back.
Thursday,  duly 2, was the day of election for Parliament men. It was begun and ended without any
hurry at all. I had a large congregation in the evening, among whom two or three roared for the disquietness of their heart; as did many at the meeting
which followed, particularly those who had lost their
first love.
"One may as well Blow against the Wind."
Monday, 7uly 6. I preached, about twelve, at Bray;
but neither the house nor the yard would contain the
congregation, and all were serious. The scoffers are
vanished away; I scarce saw one in the county. I
preached in the evening at Camborne to an equally




122        Wesley his Own Historian.      [I747.
serious congregation. I looked about for John Rogers, the champion, who had so often sworn I should
never more preach in that parish. But it seems he
had given up the cause, saying, " One may as well blow
against the wind."
Wesley Sifting the Exhorters.
Tuesday, yuly 7. I preached at St. Ives; Wednesday 8, at Sithney. On Thursday the stewards of all
the societies met. I now diligently inquired what
exhorters there were in each society; whether they
had gifts meet for the work, whether their lives were
eminently holy, and whether there appeared any fruit
of their labor. I found, upon the whole, I. That
there were no less than eighteen exhorters in the
county; 2. That three of these had no gifts at all for
the work, neither natural nor supernatural; 3. That
a fourth had neither gifts nor grace, but was a dull,
empty, self-conceited man; 4. That a fifth had considerable gifts, but had evidently made shipwreck of
the grace of God; these, therefore, I determined immediately to set aside, and advise our societies not to
hear them; 5. That J. B., A. L., and J. W., had gifts
and grace, and had been much blessed in the work.
Lastly, that the rest might be helpful when there was
no preacher in their own or the neighboring societies, provided they would take no step without the
advice of those who had more experience than themselves.
A Romantic Ride.
Wednesday, Aug. 5. Taking horse early in the
morning, we rode over the rough mountains of Radnorshire and Montgomeryshire into Merionethshire.




1747.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          123
In the evening I was surprised with one of the finest
prospects in its kind that ever I saw in my life. We
rode in a green vale, shaded with rows of trees, which
made an arbor for several miles. The river labored
along on our left hand through broken rocks of every
size, shape, and color. On the other side of the river
the mountain rose to an immense height, almost perpendicular, and yet the tall, straight oaks stood, rank
above rank, from the bottom to the very top, only
here and there, where the mountain was not so steep,
were interposed pastures or fields of corn. At a distance, as far as the eye could reach, as it were by
way of contrast,
A mountain huge upreared
Its broad, bare back,
with vast, rugged rocks hanging over its brow, that
seemed to nod portending ruin.
The Fault in his Head, not in the Heart.
Wednesday, Sept. 2. I spent some time with T.
Prosser, who had filled the society with vain janglings. I found the fault lay in his head rather than
his heart. He is an honest, well-meaning man; but
no more qualified, either by nature or grace, to expound Scripture than to read lectures in logic or algebra. Yet even men of sense have taken this dull,
mystical man to be far deeper than he is, and it is very
natural so to do. If we look into a dark pit it seems
deep, but the darkness only makes it seem so. Bring
the light, and we shall see it is very shallow. In the
evening I preached at Fonmon; but, the congregation being larger than the chapel would contain, I
was obliged to preach in the court. I was myself




124         Wesley his Own Historian.   [1747-48.
much comforted in comforting the weary and heavy
laden.
Alexander the Great and Judas.
Friday, Sept. 4. There was a very large congregation at Cardiff Castle yard in the evening. I afterward met the society, spoke plain to them, and left
them once more in peace.
Saturday, Sept. 5. In my road to Bristol I read over
Q. Curtius, a fine writer, both as to thought and language. But what a hero does he describe! whose
murder of his old friend and companion, Clitus,
(though not done of a sudden, as is commonly supposed, but deliberately, after some hours' consideration,) was a virtuous act in comparison of his butchering poor Philotas, and his good old father, Parmenio.
Yet even this was a little thing compared to the
thousands and ten thousands he slaughtered, both in
battle and in and after taking cities, for no other
crime than defending their wives and children. I
doubt whether Judas claims so hot a-place in hell as
Alexander the Great.
A Captain of the Mob begins to Pray.
Friday, Feb. I2, I748. After preaching at Oakhill
about noon I rode to Shepton, and found them all
under a strange consternation. A mob, they said,
was hired, prepared, and made sufficiently drunk, in
order to do all manner of mischief. I began preaching between four and five; none hindered or interrupted at all. We had a blessed opportunity, and
the hearts of many were exceedingly comforted. I
wondered what was become of the mob. But we
were quickly informed they mistook the place, imag



1748.]     Wesley his Own Historian. 125
ining I should alight (as I used to do) at William
Stone's house, and had summoned, by drum, all their
forces together to meet me at my coming; but Mr.
Swindells innocently carrying me to the other end
of the town, they did not find their mistake till I had
done preaching, so that the hindering this, which was
one of their designs, was utterly disappointed. However, they attended us from the preaching-house to
William Stone's, throwing dirt, stones, and clods in
abundance; but they could not hurt us; only Mr.
Swindells had a little dirt on his coat, and I a few
specks on my hat.
After we were gone into the house they began
throwing great stones in order to break the door;
but perceiving this would require some time, they
dropped that design for the present.  They first
broke all the tiles on the penthouse over the door,
and then poured in a shower of stones at the windows. One of their captains, in his great zeal, had
followed us into the house, and was now shut in with
us. He did not like this, and would fain have got
out, but it was not possible, so he kept as close to
me as he could, thinking himself safe when he was near
me; but staying a little behind-when I went up two
pair of stairs, and stood close on one side, where we
were a little sheltered a large stone struck him on
the forehead, and the blood spouted out like a stream.
He cried out, " 0, sir, are we to die to-night? What
must I do? What must I do?"  I said, " Pray to
God. He is able to deliver you from all danger."
He took my advice, and began praying in such a
manner as he had scarce done ever since he was
born.




x26         Wesley his Own Historian.    [1748.
Wesley's Remarkable Preservation.
Feb. Mr. Swindells and I then went to prayer;
after which I told him "we must not stay here; we
must go down immediately." He said, "Sir, we cannot stir; you see how the stones fly about." I walked
straight through the room, and down the stairs, and
not a stone came in till we were at the bottom. The
mob had just broke open the door when we came
into the lower room, and exactly while they burst in
at one door we walked out at the other; nor did one
man take any notice of us, though we were within
five yards of each other. They filled the house at
once, and proposed setting it on fire; but one of
them, happening to remember that his own house
was next, with much ado persuaded them not to do
it. Hearing one of them cry out, "They are gone
over the grounds," I thought the advice was good;
so we went over the grounds to the further end of
the town, where Abraham Jenkins waited, and undertook to guide us to Oakhill. I was riding on in
Shepton-lane, it being now quite dark, when he cried
out, "Ccme down, come down from the bank!" I did
as I was bid; but the bank being high, and the side
very near perpendicular, I came down all at once, my
horse and I tumbling one over another. But we both
rose unhurt. In less than an hour we came to Oakhill, and the next morning to Bristol.
Sea Captains' Exouses for not Sailing,
Sunday, Feb. 28. In the evening I read prayers at
our inn, and preached to a large and serious audience.
I did the same on Monday and Tuesday evening.




I748.]      Wesley his Own Historian.           127
Perhaps our stay here may not be in vain. I never
knew men make such poor, lame excuses as these
captains did for not sailing. It put me in mind of
the epigram,
There are, if rightly I methink,
Five causes why a man should drink;
which, with a little alteration, would just suit them:
There are, unless my memory fail,
Five causes why "we should not sail:
The fog is thick, the wind is high,
It rains, or may do by and by;
Or-any other reason why.
Wesley Examines the Classes-Results.
Wednesday, March 23. I talked with a warm man,
who was always very zealous for the Church when he
was very drunk, and just able to stammer out the
Irish proverb, "No gown, no crown." He was quickly
convinced that, whatever we were, he was himself a
child of the devil. We left him full of good resolutions, which held several days.  I preached at Newgate at three, but found no stirring at all among the
dry bones.
Friday, March 25. I preached in Marlboroughstreet at five to the largest congregation I have yet
seen in a morning. At two I began in Ship-street,
where were many of the rich and genteel. I was exceeding weak in body, having been examining classes
all the day, but I felt it not after I had spoke two
sentences. I was strengthened both in body and
soul. I finished the classes the next day, and found
them  just as I expected.  I left three hundred and
ninety-four persons united together in August. I




x 28        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I748.
had now admitted between twenty and thirty, who
had offered themselves since my return to Dublin,
and the whole number was neither more nor less
than three hundred and ninety-six.
Wesley holds his Congregation in a Hail-storm.
Tuesday, April I2. I rode to Clara, where I was
quickly informed that there was to begin in an hour's
time a famous cock-fight, to which almost all the
country was coming from  every side.  Hoping to
engage some part of them in a better employ, I began preaching in the street as soon as possible. One
or two hundred stopped and listened awhile, and
pulled off their hats, and forgot their diversion. The
congregation at Tullamore in the evening was larger
than ever before, and deep attention sat on every
face. Toward the latter end of the sermon there
began a violent storm of hail. I desired the people
to cover their heads, but the greater part of them
would not, nor did any one go away till I concluded
my discourse.
Criticism on the History of St. Patrick,
M/onday, April 25. Finding my fever greatly increased, I judged it would be best to keep my bed,
and to live awhile on apples and apple-tea. On Tuesday
I was quite well, and should have preached, but that
Dr. Rutty (who had been with me twice) insisted on
my resting for a time.
I read to-day what is accounted the most correct
history of St. Patrick that is extant, and, on the maturest consideration, I was much inclined to believe
that St. Patrick and St. George were of one family.




I:74:8.]    Wesley his'wn Historian.        -129
The whole story smells strong of romance. To touch
only on a few particulars: I object to his first setting
out. The -Bishop bof Rome  had- nfo.such power in the
beginning of the fifth century as this' account supposes, nor would his uncle, the Bishop of Tours, have
sent him in that age to Rome for a commission to
convert Ireland; having himself as much authority
over that land as any Italian bishop whatever. Again,
if God had sent him thither, he would not so long
have buried his talent in the earth. I never heard
before of an apostle sleeping thirty-five years, and
beginning to preach at three-score. But his success
staggers me the most of all. No blood of the martyrs is here, no reproach, no scandal of. the cross, no
persecution to those that will live godly. Nothing is
to be heard of, from the beginning. to: the end, but
kings, nobles,: warriors bowing down- b'efore; him.
Thousands: a~rde c,.onverted without any opposition at
all: twelve thousand at one sermon.  If these things
were- so, either- there was -then no devil in the world,
or St. Patrick did not preach the Gospel of Christ.
Bareheaded Children the first to greet Wesley.
Friday, April 29. I rode to Temple Macqueteer,and thence toward Athlone,  We came at least an
hour before we were expected.  Nevertheless, we
were met by many, of our brethren.  The first I saw,
about two miles from the town, were a dozen little
boys running with all their might, some bareheaded,
some barefooted and barelegged; so they had their
desire of speaking to me first, the others being still
behind.
9




I30         Wesley his Own Historian.     [1748.
Faithful Preaching and an Affectionate Parting,
Sunday, May 8. I preached at five, though I could
not well stand. I then set out for Aghrim, in the
county of Galway, thirteen Connaught (that is, Yorkshire) miles from Athlone. The morning prayers
(so called) began about twelve, after which we had a
warm sermon against enthusiasts. I could not have
come at a better time, for I began immediately after;
and all that were in the church, high and low, rich
and poor, stopped to hear me. In explaining the inward kingdom of God, I had a fair occasion to consider what we had just heard; and God renewed my
strength, and, I trust, applied his word to the hearts
of most of the hearers. Mr. S., a neighboring Justice of Peace, as soon as I had done, desired me to
dine with him. After dinner I hastened back to
Athlone, and began preaching about six; five clergymen were of the audience, and abundance of Romanists. Such an opportunity I never had before in
these parts.
Monday, May 9. Having not had an hour's sound
sleep from the time I lay down till I rose, I was in
doubt whether I could preach or not; however, I
went to the market-place as usual, and found no want
of strength till I had fully declared "the redemption that is in Jesus Christ." I had designed afterward to settle the society thoroughly; but I was not
able to sit up so long. Many advised me not to go
out at night, the wind being extremely cold and blustering. But I could in no wise consent to spare myself at such a time as this.  I preached on, "Come
unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden," and




1748.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       131 
I found myself at least as well when I had done as -I
was before I begun.
Tuesday, May io. With much difficulty I broke
away from this immeasurably-loving people, and not
so soon as I imagined neither; for when we drew near
to the turnpike, about a mile from the town, a multitude waited for us at the top of the hill. They fell
back on each side, to make us way, and then joined
and closed us in.  After singing two or three verses
I put forward, when, on a sudden, I was a little surprised by such a cry of men, women, and children as
I never heard before. Yet a little while, and we shall
meet to part no more; and sorrow and sighing shall
flee away for ever.
The Wish of a Popish Priest,
Sunday, May 15. Finding my strength greatly restored, I preached at five and at eight on Oxmantown Green. I expected to sail as soon as I had done,
bEt the captain putting it off, (as their manner is,)
gave me an opportunity of declaring the Gospel of
peace to a larger congregation in the evening. One
of them, after listening some time, cried out, shaking
his head, "Aye, he is a Jesuit; that's plain." To
which a Popish priest, who happened to be near,
replied aloud, "No, he is not; I would to God he
was.))
Epworth greatly Reformed.
Yuly. Mr. Hay, the Rector, reading prayers, I had
once more the comfort of receiving the Lord's Supper
at Epworth.  After the evening service, I preached
at the Cross again to almost the whole town.  I see
plainly we have often judged amiss when we have




13-2        Wesley his Own Historian.    e[i748.
measured the increase of the work of God, in this
and other places, by the increase of the society only.
The society here is not large; but God has wrought
upon the whole place. Sabbath-breaking and drunkenness are no more seen in these -streets; cursing
and swearing are rarely heard. Wickedness hides
its head already. Who knows but, by and by, God
may utterly take it away? I was peculiarly pleased
with the deep seriousness of the congregation at:
church, both morning and evening; and all the way
as we walked down the church lane, after the sermon
was ended, I scarce saw one person look on either
side, or speak one word to another.Criticism on the Tenth Iliad of Homer.
Friday, Aug.'I 2. -In'riding1 to:Newcastle I finished
the t enth:-Iliad of:.Homer.' What.an amaizing'. genius
had thins marn!''To: write..with, such.. strefigth" of:
thought, and beauty of'expression, when he had none:
to go before him! And: what a vein'of piety' runs
through his whole work, in spite of his pagan prejudices! Yet one cannot but observe such' improprieties intermixed as are shocking to the last -degree.
What excuse can any man of common sense make
for " His scolding heroes, and his wounded gods?"
Nay, does he not introduce even his "Father of gods
and men," one while shaking heaven with his nod,
and soon after using his sister and wife, the empress
of heaven, with such language as a carman might.:be
ashamed of? And what can be said for a king, full,
of days and wisdom, telling Achilles how often he.
had given him wine, when he was a child and sat in
his lap, till he had vomited it up on his clothes? Are




I748.].W..esley his Owii. Historian.      133
these some of those'" divine;boldnesses' which natu-.rally provoke short-sightedness and ignorance to show
themselves?"
Wesley Preaches four timeh and rides Fifty Miles in a Day.
Tuesday, Aug. I6. We left Newcastle.  In riding
to Leeds I read Dr. Hodge's " Account of the Plague
in London." I was surprised, I. That he did not
learn, even from the symptoms related by himself,
that the part first seized by the infection was the
stomach; and, 2. That he so obstinately persevered
in the. hot regimen; though he continually saw the
ill success of it, a: majority -of' the patients'dying under his hands. Soon after twelve I preached, near the
market-place'in Stockton, to a very large -and very
rude congregation.  But-they grew calmer and calmer, so that long before I had done they were quiet
and serious.  Some gentlemen of Yarm.earnestly
desired that I would preach there in the.afternoon. I
refused for some time, being weak and tired; -so that
I thought-preaching- thrice in -the day, and riding upward of fifty miles, would be. work..enough.  But
they would take no denial -so, I. went with them
about-two o'clock, and preached- at three, in the market-place there, to. a great multitude of people, gathered together at a few  minutes' warning.  About
seven I preached in the street at Osmotherly. It
rained almost all the time, but none went away.
The Stones Hit the right Mark..
August. At one I went to the Cross at Bolton.
There was a vast number of people, but many of them
utterly wild. As soon as I began speaking, they began thrusting to and fro, endeavoring to throw me




I34        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I748.
down from the steps on which I stood. They did so
once or twice; but I went up again, and continued
my discourse. They then began to throw stones; at
the same time some got upon the Cross behind me
to push me down; on which I could not but observe
how God overrules even the minutest circumstances.
One man was bawling just at my ear, when a stone
struck him on the cheek, and he was still. A second
was forcing his way down to me, till another stone hit
him on the forehead; it bounded back, the blood ran
down, and he came no further. The third, being got
close to me, stretched out his hand, and in the instant
a sharp stone came upon the joints of his fingers.
He shook his hand, and was very quiet till I concluded
my discourse and went away.
Silver-tongued Antichrist.
August. We came to Shackerley, six miles further,
before five in the evening. Abundance of people
were gathered before six-many of whom were disciples of Dr. Taylor-laughing at Original Sin, and,
consequently, at the whole frame of scriptural Christianity. 0 what a providence is it, which has brought
us here also among these silver-tongued Antichrists!
Surely a few, at least, will recover out of the snare,
and know Jesus Christ as their wisdom and righteousness!
Satan's Device exposed.
Sunday, Oct. 9. I began examining the classes in
Kingswood, and was never before so fully convinced
of the device of Satan, which has often made our
hands hang down, and our minds evil affected to our
brethren. Now, as ten times before, a cry was gone




1748-49.]   Wesley hir Ovwn Historian.       135
forth, " What a scandal do these people bring upon
the Gospel! What a society is this, with all these
drunkards, and tale-bearers, and evil-speakers in it!"
I expected, therefore, that I should find a heavy task
upon my hands; and that none of these scandalous
people might be concealed, I first met all the leaders,
and- inquired particularly of each person in every
class. I repeated this inquiry when the classes themselves met. And what was the ground of all this
outcry? Why, two persons had relapsed into drunkenness within three months' time; and one woman
was proved to have made, or at least related, an idle
story concerning another. I should rather have expected two and twenty instances of the former, and
one hundred of the latter kind.
Mr. Wesley Instructs his Preachers in Logic and Elocution
Tuesday, Feb. 21, 1749. I rode to Ragland, and the
next day to Kingswood.
Thursday, Feb. 23. My design was to have as many
of our preachers here, during the Lent,'as could possibly be spared, and to read lectures to them every
day, as I did to my pupils in Oxford. I had seventeen of them in all. These I divided into two classes,
and read to one Bishop Pearson on the Creed, to
the other Aldrich's Logic; and to both, "Rules for
Action and Utterance."
Meets the Children Weekly.
Tuesday, March I4. Having set apart an hour
weekly for that purpose, I met the children of our
four schools together: namely, the boys boarded in
the new house, the girls boarded in the old; the day
scholars (boys) taught by James Harding, and the




i36        PWesley his Own. Historian.    [1749.
girls taught by Sarah Dimmock. We soonr found
the effect of it in the. children,, some. of. whom were
deeply affected.
A false Report-Dr. B. the Sinner.
Friday, rune 2. I was sent for by a clergyman,
who had come twelve miles on purpose to'talk with
me. We had no dispute, but simply endeavored to
strengthen each other's hands in God. In the evening a gentlewoman informed me that Dr. B. had
averred to her and many others, I. That both John
and Charles Wesley had been expelled the University
of Oxford long ago. 2. That there was not a Methodist left in Dublin, or any where in Ireland, but Cork
and Bandon, all the rest having been rooted out by
order of the government. 3. That neither were there
any Methodists left in England. And, 4. That it was
all Jesuitism at the bottom. Alas for poor Dr. B.!
God be merciful unto thee, a sinner!
Quick-Response to an Important Question.
Saturday, yunne I7. The wind blowing very tempestuous in the evening, I preached in our- new
built- house. Toward the close of the-sermon-I- asked,
":Which of you Will give yourself, soul and body, to
God?"  "0, Iwill! I-will!" one cried out,-with a
cry that almost shook the house; and, as soon as
she could stand, she came forth in the midst to
witness it before all the congregation. It was Mrs.
Glass.  Her words pierced like lightning.  Presently another witnessed the same resolution. And
not long after, one who had been sorrowing as without hope, Mrs. Meecham, lifted up her head with joy,




I749].     Wesley his Ownz Historian.       137
and continued singing and praising God to the dawn
of the next day.
Perceiving this:was an acceptable time, I laid aside
my design of meeting the society, and continued in
prayer..with the whole' congregation, all our hearts
*being; as the- heart of one man. When I had at
length pronounced the blessing no man stirred, but
each stayed in his place till I walked through them.
I was soon called back by one crying out, "My God!
my God! thou hast forgotten me."  Having spoken
this, she sank to the earth. We called upon God in
her behalf. The cries both of her and of several
others, mourning after God, redoubled. But we continued wrestling with God in prayer till he gave us
an answer of peace.
Presentment of a Grand Jury in Cork.
Tuesday, Aug. i..I spent a solemn hour with our
children at Kingswood.  After; having settled all
things there and at Bristol I. returned to London,
where I received a remarkable. account from Cork.
On'August g19' twenty-eight,depositions were laid
before the Grand Jury there,; but they threw them
all out, and at the same time made that memorable
presentment, which is worthy to be preserved in the
annals of Ireland to all succeeding generations:
"We find and present Charles Wesley to be a person of ill fame, a vagabond, and a common disturber
of his Majesty's peace; and we pray- he may be
transported.
"We find and present James Williams, etc. We
find and present Robert Swindle, etc. We find
and present Jonathan. Reeves, etc. We find and




138        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I749.
present John Larwood, etc.  We find and present Joseph M'Auliff; etc.  We find and present
Charles Skaron, etc. We find and present William
Tooker, etc.
"We find and present Daniel Sullivan to be a person of ill fame, a vagabond, and a common disturber
of his Majesty's peace; and we pray he may be
transported."
Daniel Sullivan was an honest baker, who had
lived in Cork many years, I suppose in as good fame
as any of his trade in the city; but he had entertained my brother, and several other Methodists;
nay, and suffered them to preach in his house. The
other names (only most of them miserably mangled
and murdered) were designed for the names of eight
preachers who had been there.
How Mr. Wesley took Rest.
Wednesday, Sept. 6. I reached Newcastle; and
after resting a day, and preaching two evenings and
two mornings, with such a blessing as we have not
often found, on Friday set out to visit the northern
societies. I began with that of Morpeth, where I
preached at twelve, on one side of the market-place.
It was feared the market would draw the people from
the sermon; but it was just the contrary: they quitted their stalls, and there was no buying or selling
till the sermon was concluded. At Alnwick likewise
I stood in the market-place in the evening, and exhorted a numerous congregation to be always ready
for death, for judgment, for heaven. I felt what I
spoke; as I believe did most that were present, both
then and in the morning, while I besought them




1749.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       I39
to "present" themselves "a living sacrifice, holy,
acceptable to God."
Saturday, Sept. 9. I rode slowly forward to Berwick. I was myself much out of order; but I would
not lose the opportunity of calling, in the evening, all
that were " weary and heavy laden" to Him who hath
said, " I will give you rest."
Sunday, Sept. Io. I preached at eight, and at four
in the afternoon; and in the hours between, spoke
with the members of the society. I met them all at
seven, and a glorious meeting it was. I forgot all
my pain while we were praising God together; but
after they were gone I yielded to my friends, and
determined to give myself a day's rest. So I spent
Monday, the IIth, in writing; only I could not refrain from meeting the society in the evening. The
next evening God enabled me to speak searching
words to an earnestly attentive congregation.
Could not Send them Away Empty.
Sunday, Sept. 24. At eight I preached at the Gins,
another village full of colliers about half a mile from
the town. The congregation was very large and
deeply attentive.. Between one and two I preached
again at Hensingham, to as many as my voice could
command, on "Repent ye and believe the Gospel."
Thence I hastened to church, and in the midst of
the service I felt a sudden stroke. Immediately a
shivering ran through me, and in a few minutes I
was in a fever. I thought of taking a vomit immediatel.y and going to bed. But when I came from
church, hearing there was a vast congregation in the
market-place, I could not send them away empty.




140        Wesley his Own Historian.      [  749.
And while I was speaking to them God remembered
me and strengthened me both in soul and body.
Lions at Rochdale- and Bolton.
Wednesday, Oct. i8. I rode, at the desire of John
Bennet, to Rochdale, in Lancashire. As soon as
ever we entered the town, we found the streets lined
on both sides with multitudes of people, shouting,
cursing, blaspheming, and gnashing upon us with
their teeth. -Perceiving it would not be practicable
Ito preach -abroad, I-went into a large room open to
*the street, and called aloud, " Let the wicked forsake;his way,- and the unrighteous man his thoughts."'The word of God prevailed over- the fierceness of man.
None opposed or interrupted, and there was a very
remarkable change in the behavior of the people as
we afterward went through the- town.
We came to Bolton about five in the evening. We
had no sooner entered the main street than we perceived the lions at Rochdale were lambs in comparison of those at Bolton. Such rage and bitterness I
scarce ever saw- before in any creatures that bore the
form of men. They followed us in full cry to the
-house where we went; and as soon as we- were gone
-in, took possession of all.the- avenues to it, and filled
the street from one end -to the other. After some
time the waves did not roar quite so loud. Mr. P.
thought he might then venture out. They immediately closed in, threw him down, and, rolled -him in
the mire; so that when he scrambled fromt them, and
got into the house again, one could scarce, tell who
or what he was. When the first stone came among
-us through- the window I expected a shower to fol



I749.]    WPesley his Own Historian.      141
low, and the rather because they had now procured
a bell to call -theirlwhole forces together. But they
did not design to carry on the attack at a distance;
presently one ran up and told us, the mob had burst
into the house; he added, that they had got J. B. in
the midst of -them.  They had; and he laid hold on
the opportunity -to tell them of "-the- terrors of the
Lord."  Meantimre D. T. engaged -another. part of
them with smoother -and softer words.' Believing the
time was now come, I walked down into the thickest
of them. They had now filled all the rooms below.
I called for a chair. The winds were hushed, and all
was calm and still.. My heart was filled with love,
my eyes with tears,.and-my. mouth; witrh.arguimrents.
They were amazed, they. were. ashamed, -they were
melted down, they devoured every word.. What a
turn was this-! 0 how.did God,Change- the counsel
of the old Ahithophel.into foolishness, and - bring
all the drunkards, swearers, Sabbath-breakers,. and
mere sinners in the place to hear of his plenteous
redemption!
"Who Maketh me to Differ."
Saturday, Oct. 21. By conversing with several
here, I found we were not now among publicans and
sinners, but among those who, awhile ago, supposed
they needed;no repentance. Many of them had been
long "exercising themselves unto godliness," in much
the-same, manner as we did at Oxford; but they were
now thoroughly willing to renounce their own, and
accept " the righteousness which is of God by faith."
A gentlemanwhb had several years before heard me
preach at Bath, sending to invite me to dinner, I had




I42        Wesley his Own Historian.  [I749-50.
three or four hours' serious conversation with him.
0, who maketh me to differ! Every objection he
made to the Christian system has passed through
my mind also; but God did not suffer them to rest
there, or to remove me from the hope of the Gospel.
I was not surprised when word was brought that the
Vicar of Acton had not the courage to stand to his
word; neither was I troubled. I love indeed to
preach in a church; but God can work wherever it
pleaseth him.
A Remarkable Event Brought to Mind.
Friday, Feb. 9, I750. We had a comfortable watchnight at the chapel. About eleven o'clock it came into
my mind that this was the very day and hour in which,
forty years ago, I was taken out of the flames. I
stopped, and gave a short account of that wonderful
providence. The voice of praise and thanksgiving
went up on high, and great was our rejoicing before
the Lord.
Wesley Shut Out of Newgate and Bedlam.
Wtednesday, Feb. 21. I preached in the old French
church in Grey-eagle-street, Spitalfields. It was extremely full, and many of the hearers- were greatly
moved; but who will endure to the end?
Thuzrsday, Feb. 22. Having been sent for several
times, I went to see a young woman in Bedlam. But
I had not talked with her long, before one gave
me to know that none of these preachers were to
come there. So we are forbid to go to Newgate for
fear of making them wicked; and to Bedlam, for
fear of driving them mad!




1750.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       143
Always at Work.
Saturday, March 24. We set out at five, and
at six came to the sands. But the tide was in, so
that we could not pass; so I sat down in a little
cottage for three or four hours and translated
Aldrich's "Logic."
A Congregation Daubed with Gold and Silver.
Thursdav, March 29. In the evening I was surprised
to see, instead of some poor, plain people, a room full of
men daubed with gold and silver. That I might not
go out of their depth, I began expounding the story of
Dives and Lazarus. It was more applicable than I
was aware, several of them (as I afterward learned)
being eminently wicked men. I delivered my own
soul; but they could in no wise bear it. One and
another walked away murmuring sorely. Four stayed
till I drew to a close; they then put on their hats,
and began talking to one another. I mildly reproved
them; on which they rose up and went away, railing
and blaspheming.  I had then a comfortable hour
with a company of plain, honest Welshmen.
The Mayor of Cork in Concert with the Mob.
Saturday, May 19. I preached about eleven, and in
the afternoon rode on to Cork. About nine in the
evening I came to Alderman Pembrock's.
Sunday, May 20. Understanding the usual place
of preaching would by no means contain those who
desired to hear, about eight I went to Hammond's
Marsh.  The congregation was large and deeply
attentive. A few of the rabble gathered at a distance; but by little and little they drew near, and




I44        Wesley his Own -Historila.    [ 750o
mixed with the congregation; so that I have seldom
seen a more quiet and orderly assembly-at any church
in England o-r Ireland.
In the afternoon, a report being spread abroad that
the Mayor designed to hinder my preaching on the
Marsh in the evening, I desired Mr. Skelton and
Mr. Jones to wait upon him and inquire concerning
it. Mr. Skelton asked if my preaching there would
be disagreeable to him; adding, " Sir, if it would,
Mr. Wesley will not do it." He replied warmly,
"Sir, I will have no mobbing." Mr. Skelton replied,
"Sir, there was none this morning."  He, answered,
"There was. Are there not churches;:aid-'meetirgi
houses enough?  I will have n/o- more'~.mobs and
riots."  Mr. Skelton replied,:" Sitr- neither Mr. Wesley nor they that' heard him, made; either mobs or
riots." ~ He answered plain, "'I will;have no more
preaching; and if Mr. Wesley attempts to preach I
am prepared for him."
I began preaching- in our own house, soon after
five. Mr. Mayor meantime was -walking in the'Change, and giving orders to the town drummers
and to his sergeants-doubtless to go down and keep
the peace'! i They accordingly came down to the house
with an in-iumerable mob attending them.'They
continued drumming, and I continued preaching till I
had finished'my-dis-course. When I came out the
mob immediately closed me in.  Observing one of
the sergeants standing by, I desired him to keep the
King's peace; but he replied, " Sir, I have no orders
to do that."  As soon as I came into the street the
rabble threw whatever came to hand, but all went
by me or flew over my head, nor do I remember that




1750.]     W?esley his Own Historian.     145
one thing touched me. I walked on straight through
the midst of the rabble, looking every man before me
in the face, and they opened on the right and left till
I came near Dant's bridge. A- large party had taken
possession of this, one of whom was bawling out,
" Now, hey for the Romans! " When I came up they
likewise shrunk back, and I walked through them to
Mr. Jenkins's house; but a Papist stood just within
the door and endeavored to hinder my going in, till
one of the mob (I suppose aiming at me, but missing)
knocked her down flat. I then went in, and God
restrained the wild beasts, so that not one attempted
to follow me.
But many of the congregation were more roughly
handled, particularly Mr. Jones, who was covered with
dirt, and escaped with his life almost by miracle. The
main body of the mob then went to the house, brought
-out all the seats and benches, tore up the floor, the
door, the frames, of the windows, and whatever of woodwork remained; part of which they carried off for
their own use, and the rest they burned in the open
street. Finding there was no probability of their
dispersing I sent to Alderman Pembrock, who immediately desired Mr. Alderman Winthrop, his nephew,
to go down to Mr. Jenkins's, with whom I walked up
the street, none giving me an unkind or disrespectful
word.
Mionday, May 2 I. I rode on to Bandon. From three
in the afternoon till past seven the mob of Cork
marched in grand procession, and then burned me in
effigy near Dant's bridge.  While they were so
busily employed, Mr. Haughton took the opportunity
of going down to Hammond's Marsh. He called at
10




I46        Wesley his' Own Historian.    [1750.
a friend's house there, where the good woman, in
great care, locked him in; but observing many people
were met, he threw up the sash and preached -to
them out of the window. Many seemed deeply
-affected, even of those who had been persecutors
before; and they all quietly retired to their several
homes before the mob was at leisure to attend them.
Tuesday, May 22. The mob and drummers were
moving again between three and four in the morning.
The same evening they came down to the Marsh,
but stood at a distance from Mr. Stockdale's house
till the drums beat, and the Mayor's sergeant beckoned to them, on which they drew up and began the
attack. The Mayor being sent for, came with a party
of soldiers and said to the mob, " Lads, once, twice,
thrice, I bid you go home; now I have done." He
then went back, taking the soldiers with him; on
which the mob, pursuant to instructions, went on and
broke all the glass and most of the window-frames in
pieces.
The Three Champions.
Friday, May 25. All this time God gave us great
peace at Bandon, notwithstanding the unwearied
labors, both public and private, of good Dr. B13   to
stir up the people. But, Saturday, May 26, many
were under great apprehensions of what was to be
done in the evening. I began preaching in the main
street at the usual hour, but to more than twice the
usual congregation.  After I had spoken about a
quarter of an hour a clergyman, who had planted
himself near me, with a very large stick in his hand,
according to agreement, opened the scene. (Indeed,
his friends assured me he was drunk or he would not




1750.]      Wesley his Own Historian.      I47
have done it,) but before he had uttered many words,
two or three resolute women, by main strength pulled
him into a house, and after expostulating a little sent
him away through the garden.
The -next champion that appeared was one Mr.
M, a young gentleman of the town. He was
attended by two others with pistols in their hands.
But his triumph, too, was short.  Some of the
people quickly bore him away, though with much
gentleness and civility.
The third came on with greater fury; but he was
encountered by a butcher of the town, (not one of the
Methodists,) who used him as he would an ox, bestowing one or two hearty blows upon his head. This
cooled his courage, especially as none took his part.
So I quietly finished my discourse.
An Irish Howl at the Burial of the Dead.
Thursday, May 3. I rode to Rathcormuck. There
being a great burying in the afternoon, to which
people came from all parts, Mr. Lloyd read part of the
burial service in the church, after which I preached on,
"The end of all things is at hand." I was exceedingly shocked at (what I had only heard of before)
the Irish howl which followed. It was not a song, as
I supposed, but a dismal, inarticulate yell, set up at
the grave by four shrill-voiced women, who (we understood) were hired for that purpose. But I saw not
one that shed a tear; for that, it seems, was not
in their bargain.
Wesley's Longest Day1s Ride.
Yune I 5. My horse tired in the afternoon, so I left
him behind, and borrowed that of my companion. I




I48        ~Wesley his Own Historian.     [ I750.
came to Aymo about eleven, and would -very willingly
have passed the rest of the night there, but the good
woman of the inn was not minded that I should. For
some time she would not answer; at last she opened
the door just wide enough to let out four dogs upon me.
So I rode on to Ballybrittas, expecting a -rough salute
here too from a large dog which used to be in the
yard. But he never stirred till the hostler waked
and came out.  About twelve I laid me down. I
think this was the longest day's journey I ever rode.;
being fifty old Irish, that is, about ninety English
miles.
Wesley Sighs for Retirement.
Thursday, 7'une 2I. I returned to Closeland, and
preached in the evening to a little,: earnest company.
0, who should drag me into a great city if I did not
know  that there is another world!  How  gladly
could I spend the remainder of a busy life in solitude
and retirement.
A Remedy for Anger successfully applied.
Friday, _.une:22. We had awatch-night at Portarling-ton. I began before the usual time, but it-was not easy
to leave off, so great was our rejoicing in the Lord.
Saturday, Yune 23. I heard, face to face, two that
were deeply prejudiced against each other, Mrs.
E     and Mrs. M. But the longer they talked
the warmer they grew; till, in about three hours,
they were almost distracted. One who came in as a
witness was as hot as either. I perceived there was
no remedy but prayer, so a few of us wrestled with.God for above.two hours. When we arose, Mrs.
M     ran and fell on the other's neck. Anger and




r750.]     Wesley his Own Historian..149
revenge were vanished away, and melted down into
love. One only, M    t B, continued still in
bitter agony of soul. We besought God in her behalf,
and did not let him go till she also was set at liberty.
Discharged from Preaching by the Mayor of Shaftesbury.
Monday, Sept. 3. About noon I preached at Hillfarrance, three miles from Taunton. Three or four
boors would have been rude if they durst, but the
odds against them was too great. At five I preached
in Bridgewater to a well-behaved company, and then
rode on to Middlesey.  We rode from hence to
Shaftesbury, where I preached between six and seven
to a serious and quiet congregation. We had another
happy opportunity at five in the morning, when abundance of people were present. I preached at noon
in the most riotous part of the town, just where four
ways met; but none made any noise, or spoke one
word, while I called " the wicked to forsake his way."
As we walked back one or two foul-mouthed women
spoke unseemly; but none regarded, or answered
them a word. Soon after I was sat down, a constable
came and said, "Sir, the Mayor discharges you from
preaching in this borough any more."  I replied,
"While King George gives me leave to preach I shall
not ask leave of the Mayor of Shaftesbury."
Some Days of Literary Work for the Children.
Monday, Sept. 24. I reached Kingswood in the
evening, and the next day selected passages of Milton
for the eldest children to transcribe and repeat weekly.
Thursday, Sept. 27. I went into the school and




150         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I 750.
heard half the children their lessons, and then selected
passages of the " Moral and Sacred. Poems."
Friday, Sept. 28. I heard the other half of the
children.
Saturday, Sept. 29. I was with them from four to
five in the morning.  I spent most of the day in
revising Kennet's " Antiquities," and marking what
was worth reading in the school.
Wednesday, Oct. 3. I revised for the use of the
children Archbishop Potter's "Grecian Antiquities;"
a dry, dull, heavy book.
Thursday, Oct. 4. I revised Mr. Lewis's "Hebrew
Antiquities;" something more entertaining than the
other, and abundantly more instructive.
Saturday, Oct. 6. I nearly finished the abridgment
of Dr. Cave's " Primitive Christianity," a book wrote
with as much learning and as little judgment as any
I remember to have read in my whole life; serving
the ancient Christians just as Xenophon did Socrates;
relating every weak thing they ever said or did.
Wednesday, Oct. IO. I dined at P-   S-'s who,
with his wife and daughter, are wonderful monuments
of God's mercy. They were convinced of the truth
when I first preached at Bristol, and Mrs. Sk —---
was a-living witness of it; yet Satan was afterward
suffered to sift her as wheat, it seems, to take possession of her body.  He tormented her many years in
an unheard-of manner, but God has now set her at
full liberty.
Thursday, Oct. i i. I prepared a short "History
of England" for the use -of the children; and on
Friday and Saturday a short " Roman History," as
an introduction to the Latin historians.




175 I.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        15x
Mr. Wesley takes a Journey in Order to Vote
Wednesday, Yanuary 30, I75I. Having received a
pressing letter from Dr. Isham, then the Rector of
our college, to give my vote at the election for member of Parliament, which was to be the next day, I
set out early in a severe frost, with the northwest
wind full in my face. The roads were so slippery
that it was scarce possible for our horses to keep
their feet; indeed, one of them could not, but fell
upon his head and cut it terribly.  Nevertheless,
about seven in the evening God brought us safe to
Oxford. A congregation was waiting for me at Mr.
Evans's, whom I immediately addressed in those
awful words, "What is a man profited, if he shall
gain the whole world and lose his own soul?"
Thursday, ian. 3I. I went to the schools where
the convocation was met, but I did not find the
decency.and order which I expected. The gentleman for whom I came to vote was not elected; yet
I did not repent of my coming. I owe much more
than this to that generous, friendly man, who now
rests from his labors. I was much surprised,
wherever I went, at the civility of the people, gentlemen as well as others. There was no pointing, no
calling of names, as once; no, nor even laughter.
What can this mean? Am I become a servant of
men? Or is the scandal of the cross ceased?
His Marriage, and Reasons for it, with Advice to Single Men.
Saturday, Feb. 2. Having received a full answer
from Mr. P, I was clearly convinced that I ought
to marry. For many years I remained single, because




1 52       Wesley his Own Historian.     [ 175 I.
I believed I could be more useful in a single than in
a married state; and I praise God who enabled me
so to do. I now as fully believed that in my present
circumstances I might be more useful in a married
state; into which, upon this clear conviction, and
by the advice of my friends, I entered a few days
after.
[Wednesday, Feb. 6. I met the single men, and
showed them on how many accounts it was good for
those who had received that gift from God to remain'single for the kingdom of heaven's sake," unless
where a particular case might be an exception to the
general rule.
Wesley Meets with an Accident.
Sunday,.Feb. I o;. After preaching at five, I was
hastening to take my leave of the congregation at
Snowfields, proposing to set out in the morning for
the north, when on the middle of London Bridge
both my feet slipped on the ice, and I fell with great
force, the bone of my ankle lighting on the top of a
stone. However, I got on with some help to the
chapel, being resolved not to disappoint the people.
After preaching I had my leg bound up by a surgeon,
and made a shift to walk to the Seven Dials. It was
with much difficulty that I got up into the pulpit,
but God then comforted many of our hearts. I went
back in a coach to Mr. B  -'s, and from thence in a
chair to the Foundry; but I was not able to preach,
my sprain growing worse. I removed to Threadneedle-street, where I spent the remainder of the
week, partly in prayer, reading, and conversation,
partly in writing a "Hebrew Grammar" and "Lessons for Children."




~I7'5rI.]   Wesley his Own Historian.        I53
Preaching in a Kneeling Posture.
Sunday, Feb. 17. I was carried to the Foundry, and
preached, kneeling, (as I could not stand,) on part of
the Twenty-third Psalm, my heart being enlarged
and my mouth opened to declare the wonders of God's
love.
/Monday, Feb. I8, was the second day I had appointed for my journey; but I was disappointed again,
not being yet able to set my foot to the ground.
However, I preached (kneeling) on Tuesday evening
and Wednesday morning.
Sunday, Feb. 24, I preached morning and evening
at Spitalfields, where many who had been wandering
from God for several years seemed at length to have
fresh desires of returning to him. How is it that we
are so ready to despair of one another? For want
of the "love " that " hopeth all things."
Bristol Conference of one Heart and Mind.
_Monday, garch I I.' Our Conference began, and- the
more we conversed the more brotherly love increased.
The same spirit we found on Tuesday and Wednesday.
I expected to have heard many objections to our
first doctrines, but none appeared to have any.
We seemed to be all of one mind, as well as one
heart.
Friday, March 15. I mentioned whatever I thought
was amiss or wanting in any of our brethren. It was
received in a right spirit, with much love, and serious,
earnest attention; and, I trust, not one went from the
Conference. discontented, but rather blessing God
for the consolation.




154        Wesley his Own Historian.      [I75I.
The Marriage State no Excuse for Less Work.
Tuesday, MVarch I9. Having finished the business
for which I came to Bristol I. set out again for London, being desired by many to spend a few days there
before I entered upon our northern journey. I came
to London on Thursday, and having settled all affairs,
left it again on Wednesday, March 27. I cannot understand how a Methodist preacher can answer it to God
to preach one sermon or travel one day less in a married
than in a single state. In this respect surely, "it
remaineth that they who have wives be as though
they had none."
Disastrous Results from Doubtful Disputations
Wednesday, April I. I had desired John Haine to
preach at Wednesbury, but when I came he had but
just began the hymn, so I had an opportunity, which
I did not expect, of speaking again to that willing
people. What a work would have been in all these
parts if it had not been for doubtful dispensations!
If the predestinarians had not thrown back those
who had began to run well, partly into the world,
partly to the Baptists, and partly into endless disputes, concerning the secret counsels of God! While
we carried our lives in our hands none of these came
near-the waves ran too high for them; but when
all was calm they poured in on every side, and
bereaved us of our children.  Out of these they
formed one society here, one at Dudley, and another
at Birmingham.  Many indeed, though torn from
us, would not stay with them, but broke out into
the wildest enthusiasm. But still they were called




T751.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       I55
Methodists, and so all their drunkenness and blasphemies (not imputed to a believer) were imputed
to us.
Mr. Wesley in Scotland.
Wednesday, April 24. Mr. Hopper and I took horse
between three and four, and about seven came to
Old Carmus. Whether the country was good or bad
we could not see, having a thick mist all the way.
The Scotch towns are like none which I ever saw,
either in England, Wales, or Ireland; there is such
an air of antiquity in them all, and such a peculiar
oddness in their manner of building. But we were
most surprised at the entertainment we met with in
every place, so far different from common report.
We had all things good, cheap, in great abundance,
and remarkably well-dressed.  In the afternoon we
rode by Preston Field, and saw the place of battle,
and Colonel Gardiner's house.  The Scotch here
affirm that he fought on foot after he was dismounted,
and refused to take quarter. Be it as it may, he is
now "where the wicked cease from troubling, and
where the weary are at rest." We reached Musselburgh between four and five.  I had no intention to
preach in Scotland, nor did I imagine there were
any that desired I should.  But I was mistaken.
Curiosity (if nothing else) brought abundance of
people together in the evening. And whereas in
the kirk (Mrs. G — informed me) there used to be
laughing and talking, and all the marks of the
grossest inattention, it was [now] far otherwise here.
They remained as statues from the beginning of the
sermon to the end.
Thursday, April 25. We rode to Edinburgh, one of




I56        Wesley his Own Historian.   [I75I-52.
the dirtiest cities I had ever seen, not excepting C6ien
in Germany. We returned to Musselburgh to dinner,
whither we were followed in the afternoon by a little
party of gentlemen from Edinburgh. I know not
why any should complain of the shyness of the Scots
toward strangers. All I spoke with were as free and
open with me as the people of Newcastle or Bristol;
nor did any person move any dispute of any kind, or
ask me any question concerning my opinion.
I preached again at six on " Seek ye the Lord
while he may be found." I used great plainness of
speech toward them, and they received it in love; so
that the prejudice which the devil had been several
years planting was torn up by the roots in one hour.
After preaching, one of the bailies of the town, with
one of the elders of the kirk, came to me and begged
I would Stay with them awhile, if it were but two or
three days, and they would fit up a far larger place
than the school, and prepare seats for the congregation. Had not my time been fixed I should gladly
have complied. All I could now do was to give them
a promise that Mr. Hopper would come back the
next week and spend a few days with them.
The Times changed at Wakefield.
Sunday, April 12, I1752. I came to Wakefield as the
bells were ringing in, and went directly to Mr. W,
in the vestry. The behavior of the congregation surprised me.  I saw none light, none careless or unaffected, while I enforced, " What is a man profited, if
he shall gain the whole world and lose his own
soul?" Hath not God the hearts of all men in his
hand? Who would have expected to see me preach



175 2.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        I 5 7
ing in Wakefield church to so attentive a congregation, a few years ago, when all the people were as
roaring lions; and the honest man did not dare to
let me preach in his yard lest the mob should pull
down his houses!
Monday, April 13. In the evening I preached at
Sheffield, in the shell of the new house.  All is peace
here now since the trial at York, at which the magistrates were sentenced to rebuild the house which the
mob had pulled down.  Surely the magistrate has
been the minister of God to us for good!
A Strange Desire.
Friday, April 24. We rode by a fine seat, the owner
of which (not much above fourscore years old) says
he desires only to live thirty years longer: ten to
hunt, ten to get money, (having at present but twenty
thousand pounds a year,) and ten years'to repent.
O that God may not say unto him, "Thou -fool, this
night shall thy soul be required of thee!"  When I
landed at the quay in Hull it was covered with people,
inquiring, "Which is he? Which is he?"  But they
only stared and laughed, and we walked unmolested
to Mr. A's house. I was quite surprised at the
miserable condition of the fortifications, far more
ruinous and decayed than those at Newcastle even before the rebellion. It is well there is no enemy near.
Nine Years' Labor without Success.
Friday, May I5. In the afternoon I preached at
Alemouth. How plain an evidence have we here
that even our outward work, even the societies, are
not of man's building. With all our labor and skill




158       IUVesley his Owez Historian.   [I752.
we cannot in nine years' time form a society in this
place, even though there is none that opposes, poor
or rich; nay, though the two richest men in the town,
and the only gentlemen there, have done all which
was in their power to further it.
Wesley's Strength remarkably restored.
Tuesday, May 26. We rode to Weardale. I had
been out of order all night, and found myself now
much weaker. However, I trusted in the Strong for
strength, and began preaching to a numerous congregation, and I did not want strength till I had
finished my discourse, nor did the people want a
blessing. In the evening we came to Allandale, and
found the poor society well-nigh shattered in pieces.
Slackness and offense had eaten them up. When I
came into the room I was just like one of them,
having neither life nor strength, and being scarce
able either to speak or to stand. But immediately
we had a token for good. In a moment I was well.
My voice and strength were entirely restored, and I
cried aloud, "How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?"
The mountains again flowed down at his presence,
and the rocks were once more broken in pieces.
The Colliers build Mr. Wesley a Pulpit.
Thursday, ltune 2. I rode to Seaton, a town of
colliers, ten measured  miles from  Whitehaven.
The poor people had prepared a kind of pulpit for
me, covered at the top and on both sides, and had
placed a cushion to kneel upon of the greenest turf
in the country.




I752.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       I59
Wesley Sleeps Under-grolund.
Tuesday, Y'une 9. I preached at six to abundance
of people near Ewood, and with an uncommon blessing. Hence we rode to Todmorden. The minister
was slowly recovering from a violent fit- of a palsy, with
which he was struck immediately after he had been
preaching a virulent sermon against the Methodists.
I preached on the side of a mountain to a large and
earnest congregation, and then went on to Mellarbarn. I preached at six in the town, and I suppose
all the inhabitants, young and old, were present.
Nor have I often seen so large a congregation so
universally and deeply affected. My lodging was
not such as I should have chosen, but what Providence chooses is always good. My bed was considerably under-ground, the room serving both for
a bed-chamber and a cellar.  The closeness was
more troublesome at first than the coolness; but I let
in a little fresh air by breaking a pane of paper (put
by way of glass) in the window, and then slept
sound till the morning.
"A Comfortable Pain."
iMonday, july 27. I preached in Edinderry at one,
and at Closeland in the evening.
Tuesday, _7uly 28. I preached at Portarlington,
though I was extremely ill, and it was a pain to me to
speak; but it was a comfortable pain. I could from
my heart praise God for his fatherly visitation.
Wednesday, Yuly 29. I rode to Mount Mellick, but
was so hoarse and weak that I could only preach in
the house.
Fr'iday, y7ily 3I. Being not well able to ride, I




i6o        JVesley his Own Historian.   [I 75 2-5 3.
borrowed Mr. P's chair to Tullamore, and on
Saturday reached Cooly Lough, and met many of my
friends from all parts.  I now found my strength
increasing daily; it must be as my day is.
The Sword usefully employedc
Tuesday, Aug. 25. I preached in the market-place
at Kinsale. The next morning at eight I walked to
the Fort. On the hill above it we found a large, deep
hollow, capable of containing two or three thousand
people. On one side of this the soldiers soon cut a
place with their swords for me to stand, where I was
screened both from the wind and sun, while the congregation sat on the grass before me. Many eminent
sinners were present, particularly of the army, and I
believe God gave them a loud call to repentance. In
the evening I called sinners to repentance in the
main street of Bandon.  On. Thursday and Fridays
the rain drove us into the market-house. Indeed, I
hardly remember two dry days together since I
landed in Ireland.
Wesley completes his Christiani Library.
November 3. In the remaining part of this and the
following month I prepared the rest of the books for
the "Christian Library," a work by which I have
lost above two hundred pounds.  Perhaps the next
generation may know the value of it.
Visits the Neglected Sick.
Thursday, Feb. 8, 1753. In the afternoon I visited
many of the sick, but such scenes who could see unmoved? There are none such to be found in a Pagan
country,. If any of the Indians in Georgia were sick,




1753.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         I6I
(which indeed exceedingly rarely happened, till they
learned gluttony and drunkenness from the Christians,) those that were near him gave him whatever
he wanted.  O who will convert the English into
honest heathens!
On Friday and Saturday I visited as many more as
I could. I found some in their cells under-ground;
others in their garrets, half starved both with cold
and hunger, added to weakness and pain. But I
found not one of them unemployed who was able to
crawl about the room. So wickedly, devilishly false
is that common objection, "They are poor only
because they are idle." If you saw these things
with your own eyes, could you lay out money in
ornaments or superfluities?
Synopsis of Dr. Franklin's Letters.
Saturday, Feb. 17. From  Dr. Franklin's Letters I
learned, I. That electrical fire (or ether) is a species
of fire infinitely finer than any other yet known.
2. That it is diffused, and in nearly equal proportions,
through almost all substances. 3. That as long as it
is thus diffused it has no discernible effect.  4. That
if any quantity of-it be collected together, whether by
art or nature, it then becomes visible in the form of fire,
and inexpressibly powerful. 5. That it is essentially
different from the light of the sun, for it pervades a
thousand bodies which light cannot penetrate, and
yet cannot penetrate glass, which light pervades so
freely. 6. That lightning is no other than electrical
fire collected by one or more clouds. 7. That all
the effects of lightning may be performed by the
artificial electric fire. 8. That any thing pointed, as
11




I62        Wesley his Own Historian.       I753.]
a spire or tree, attracts the lightning, just as a needle
does the electric fire. 9. That the electrical fire discharged on a rat or a fowl will kill it instantly; but
discharged on one dipped in water will slide off, and
do it no hurt at all. In like manner the lightning,
which will kill a man in a moment, will not hurt him
if he be thoroughly wet. What an amazing scene is
here opened for after ages to improve upon!
How God carries on his Work in England and America.
Wednesday, Feb. 28. We rode to Bristol. I now
looked over Mr. Prince's "Christian History." What
an amazing difference is there in the manner wherein
God has carried on his work in England and iin
America! There, above a hundred of the established
clergy, men of age and experience, and of-the greatest
note for sense and learning in those parts, are zealously engaged in the work. Here, almost the whole
body of the aged, experienced, learned clergy are
zealously engaged against it; and few, but a handful
of raw young men engaged in it, without name, learning, or eminent sense.  And yet by that large number of honorable men the work seldom flourished
above six months at a time, and then followed a
lamentable and general decay before the next revival
of it; whereas that which God hath wrought by these
despised instruments has continually increased for
fifteen years together, and at whatever time it has
declined in any one place has more eminently flourished in others.
Contention not Tolerated.
Thursday, April 26. I spoke severally to those of
the society, and found that they had been harassed




I753.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        163
above measure by a few violent predestinarians, who
had at length separated themselves from us. It was
well they saved me the trouble, for I have no connection with those who will be contentious. These
I reject, not for their opinion, but for their sins; for
their unchristian temper and unchristian practice; for
being haters of reproof, haters of peace, haters of
their brethren, and, consequently, of God.
A Time of Power at York.
Sunday, May 13. I began preaching at seven, and
God applied it to the hearts of the hearers. Tears
and groans were on every side, among high and low.
God, as it were, bowed the heavens and came down.
The flame of love went before him, the rocks were
broken in pieces, and the mountains flowed down at
his presence.  I had designed to set out for Lincolnshire this morning. But, finding that a day of God's
power was come, I sent one thither in my place;
and, after preaching (as I had appointed) at Stamford
Bridge and at Pocklington, returned to York in the
evening.  Let us work together with him when, and
where, and as he pleases! Every night while I
stayed many of the rich and honorable crowded in
among us. And is not "God able, even of these
stones, to raise up children to Abraham?"
Wesley Preaches in the Isle of Wight.
Tuesday, ily I o. I went on board a hoy, and in
three hours landed at Cowes, in the Isle of Wight;
as far exceeding the Isle of Anglesey, both in pleasantness and fruitfulness, as that exceeds the rocks of
Scilly. We rode straight to Newport, the chief town
in the Isle, and found a little society in tolerable




I64         Wesley his Own Historian.    [753.
order. Several of them had found peace with God.
One informed me it was about eight years ago since
she first knew her interest in Christ, by means of
one who called there in his way to Pennsylvania; but
having none to speak to or advise with, she was long
tormented with doubts and fears. After some years
she received a fresh manifestation of his love, and
could not doubt or fear any more. She is now (and
has been long) confined to her bed, and consuming
away with pining sickness; but all is good to her, for
she has learned in every thing to give thanks.
At half an hour after six I preached in the marketplace to a numerous congregation, but they were
not so serious as those of Portsmouth. Many children made much noise, and many grown persons
were talking aloud almost all the time I was preaching. It was quite otherwise at five in the morning.
There was a large congregation again, and every
person therein seemed to know this was the word
whereby God would judge them in the last day.
In the afternoon I walked to Carisbrook Castle,
or rather the poor remains of it. It stands upon a
solid rock on the top of a hill, and commands a beautiful prospect. There is a well in it, cut quite through
the rock, said to be seventy-two yards deep; and
another in the citadel, near a hundred.  They drew
up the water by an ass, which they assured us was
sixty years old. But all the stately apartments lie in
ruins. Only just enough -of them  is left to show
the chamber where poor King Charles was confined,
and the window through which he attempted to
escape. In the evening the congregation at Newport was more numerous and more serious than




1753.]-    Wesley his Own Historian.       165
the night before.  Only one drunken man made
a little disturbance. But thee Mayor ordered him
to be taken away.
An Accursed Thing at St. Ives.
On WVednesday, 71idy 25, the Stewards met at St.
Ives from the western part of Cornwall. The next
day I began examining the society.  I found an
accursed thing among them; well-nigh one and all
bought and sold uncustomed goods.  I therefore
delayed speaking to any more till I had met them all
together. This I did in the evening, and told them
plain, either they must put this abomination away, or
they would see my face no more.
Friday, Yuly 27. They severally promised to do
so. So I trust this plague is stayed.
A Wise Providence.
Monday, Sept. io. I preached to the condemned
malefactors in Newgate, but I could make little impression upon them. I then took horse for Paulton,
where I called on Stephen Plummer, once of our
society, but now a zealous Quaker.  He was much
pleased with my calling, and -came to hear me preach.
Being straitened for time I concluded sooner than
usual; but as soon as I had done Stephen began.
After I had listened half an hour, finding he was no
nearer the end, I rose up to. go away. His- sister then
begged him to leave off, on which he flew into a
violent rage, and roared louder and louder, till an
honest man took him in his arms and gently carried
him away. What a wise providence was it that this
young man turned Quaker some years before he ran




I66        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I753.
mad! So the honor of turning his brain now rests
upon them, which otherwise must have fallen upon
the Methodists.
Wesley Sick, but Preaching.
Monday, Nov. I2. I set out in a chaise for Leigh,
having delayed my journey as long as I could. I
preached at seven, but was extremely cold: my feet
felt just as if I had stood in cold water.
Tuesday, Nov. I3. The chamber wherein I sat,
though with a large fire, was much colder than the
garden, so that I could not keep myself tolerably
warm even when I was close to the chimney. As
we rode home on Wednesday, Nov. I4, the wind was
high and piercing'cold and blew just in our face, so
that the open chaise was no defense, but my feet
were quite chilled. When I came home I had a
settled pain in my left breast, a violent cough, and a
slow fever; but in a day or two, by following Dr.
Fothergill's prescriptions, I found much alteration
for the better; and on Sunday, Nov. I8, I preached
at Spitalfields, and administered the sacrament to a
large congregation.
-Monday, Nov. I9. I retired to Shoreham and gained
strength continually, till about eleven at night on
Wednesday, Nov. 21, I was obliged by the'cramp to
leap out of bed, and continue for some time walking up and down the room, though it was a sharp
frost. My cough now returned with greater violence,
and that by day as well as by night.
Saturday, Nov. 24. I rode home and was pretty
well till night, but my cough was then worse than ever.
My fever returned at the same time, together with




I753.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          I67
the pain in my left breast; so that I should probably
have stayed at home on Sunday, Nov. 25, had it not
been advertised in the public papers that I would
preach a charity sermon at the chapel both morning
and afternoon. My cough did not interrupt me while
I preached in the morning, but it was extremely
troublesome while I administered the sacrament. In
the afternoon I consulted my friends whether I should
attempt to preach again or no.  They thought I
should, as it had been advertised. I did so, but very
few could hear. My fever increased much while I
was preaching; however, I ventured to meet the
society, and for near an hour my voice and strength
were restored, so that I felt neither pain nor weakness
Wesley Writes his Epitaph.
Monday, Nov. 26. Dr. F —--- told me plain I must
not stay in town a day longer, adding, "If any
thing does thee good it must be the country air, with
rest, asses' milk, and riding daily." So (not being
able to sit a horse) about noon I took a coach for
Lewisham. In the evening, (not knowing how it
might please God to dispose of me,) to prevent vile
panegyric I wrote as follows:
HERE LIETH THE BODY
OF
JOHN  WESLE Y,
A BRAND PLUCKED OUT OF THE BURNING:
WHO DIED OF A CONSUMPTION IN THE FIFTY-FIRST YEAR OF HIS
AGE, NOT LEAVING, AFTER HIS DEBTS ARE PAID,
TEN POUNDS BEHIND HIM:
PRAYING,
GOD BE MERCIFUL TO ME, AN UNPROFITABLE SERVANT!
He ordered that this, if any, inscription should be placed on his
tombstone.




I68        W4esley his Own Historian.      [I754.
Wesley's Notes on the New Testament the Result of Sickness.
Tuesday, r7an. I, I754. I returned once more to
London. On Wednesday, 2an. 2, I set out in the
machine, and the next afternoon came to Chippenham. Here I took a post-chaise, in which I reached
Bristol about eight in the evening.
Friday, yan. 4. I began drinking the water at the
Hot Well, having a lodging at a small distance from
it; and on Sunday, ian. 6, I began writing Notes on
the New Testament-a work which I should scarce
ever have at.tempted had I not been so ill as not to
be able to travel or preach, and yet so well as to be
able to read and write.
Monday, 7an. 7. I went on now  in  a regular
method, rising at my hour, and writing from five to
nine at night, except the time of riding, half an hour
for each meal, and the hour between five and six in
the evening.
Preaches again after an intermission of Four Months.
Sunday, March I o. I took my leave of the Hot
Well, and removed to Bristol.
Tuesday, March i 9. Having finished the rough draft,
I began transcribing the Notes on the Gospels.
Tuzesday, March 26. I preached for the first time
after an intermission of four months. What reason
have I to praise God that he does not take the word'o-f his truth utterly out of my mouth!
Baxter's " History of the Oouncils."
Monday, Azug. 5. I set out for Canterbury.  On the
way I read Mr. Baxter's "History of the Councils."
It is utterly astonishing, and would be wholly incred



I754.]1    Wesley his Own Historian.       I69
ible, but that his vouchers are beyond all exception.
What a company of execrable wretches have they
been, (one cannot justly give them a milder title,)
who have almost in every age since St. Cyprian
taken upon them  to govern the Church!  How
has one Council been'perpetually cursing another,
and delivering all over to Satan, whether predecessors or contemporaries, who did not implicitly receive
their determinations, though generally trifling, sometimes false, and frequently unintelligible or self-contradictory? Surely Mohammedanism was let loose to
reform the Christians! I know not but Constantinople has gained by the change.
Strong Words to a Rich Man.
October. Upon the whole, I must once more earnestly entreat you to consider yourself, and God, and
eternity. As to yourself, you are not the proprietor
of any thing; no, not of one shilling in the world.
You are only a steward of what another intrusts you
with, to be laid out not according to your will but
his. And what would you think of your steward if
he laid out what is called your money according
to his own will and pleasure?  2. Is not God the
sole proprietor of all things? And are not you to
give an account to him for every part of his goods?
And O how dreadful an account if you have expended
any part of them not according to his will, but your
own! 3. Is not death at hand? And are not you
and I just stepping into eternity?  Are we not just
going to appear in the presence of God, and that
naked of all worldly goods? Will you then rejoice
in the money you have left behind you? Or in that




170         Wesley his Own Historian.   [I754-5 5.
you have given to support a family, as it is called;
that is, in truth to support the pride, and vanity, and
luxury which you have yourself despised all your life
long?  0, sir, I beseech you, for the sake of God,
for the sake of your own immortal soul, examine
yourself whether you do not love money? If so, you
cannot love God. And if we die without the fear
of God, what remains?  Only to be banished from
him for ever and ever.
An Answer to Prayer.
Thursday, April 24, I755. We rode in less than
four hours the eight miles (so called) to Newell Hay.
Just as I began to preach the sun broke out, and
shone exceeding hot on the side of my head. I found
if it continued I should not be able to speak long,
and lifted up my heart to God. In a minute or two
it was covered with clouds, which continued till the
service was over.  Let any who please call this
chance, I call it- an answer to prayer.
"A Pen dipped in Tears."
Wednesday, May I. I finished the "Gentleman's
Reasons," (who is a Dissenting Minister at Exeter.)
In how different a spirit does this man write-from
honest Richard Baxter! The one dipping his pen as
it were in tears, the other in vinegar and gall. Surely
one page of that loving, serious Christian weighs
more than volumes of this bitter, sarcastic jester.
Decision of the Leeds Conference.
Tuesday, May 6. Our Conference began at Leeds.
The point on which we desired all the preachers to
speak their minds at large was, " Whether we ought




175.5.]    Wesley his Own Historian.        7 r
to separate from the Church?"  Whatever was advanced on one side or the other was seriously and
calmly considered; and on the third day we were all
fully agreed in that conclusion-that (whether it was
lawful or not) it was no ways expedient.
Monday, May I2. We rode (my wife and I) to
Northallerton.
Tuesday, May I3. I rode to Newcastle. I did not
find things here in the order I expected.  Many
were on the point of leaving the Church, which some
had done already; and, as they supposed, on my
authority! O how much discord is caused by one
jarring string! How much trouble by one man who
does not walk by the same rule, and agree in the
same judgment with his brethren!
Retiring from the World.
Wednesday, Oct. I5. I preached at Bath.  Even
here a few joined together, and hope they shall be
scattered no more. I dined with some serious persons in a large, stately house, standing on the brow
of a delightful hill. In this paradise they live in
ease, in honor, and in elegant abundance. And this
they call retiring from the world! What would
Gregory Lopez have called it? In the evening the
society met at Bristol. I had desired again and
again that no person would come who had not calmly
and deliberately resolved to give himself up to God.
But I believe not ten of them were wanting; and
we now solemnly and of set purpose, by our own
free act and deed, jointly agreed to take the Lord
for our God. I think it will not soon be forgotten;
I hope, not to all eternity.




172        Wesley his Own Historian.      [1755.
A Heavy Day's Work in London,
Monday, Oct. 20. I left Bristol, and, taking several
societies on the way, on Thursday, Oct. 23, preached
at Reading. Several soldiers were there, and many
more the next night, when I set before them "the
terrors of the Lord." And I scarce ever saw so
much impression made on this dull, senseless people.
Saturday, Oct. 25. I reached London, notwithstanding all the foreboding of my friends, in at least as
good health as I left it.
Sunday, Oct. 26. I entered upon my London duty,
reading prayers, preaching, and giving the sacrament,
at Snowsfields in the morning; preaching and giving
the sacrament at noon in West-street chapel, meeting the leaders at three, burying a corpse at four,
and preaching at five in the afternoon. Afterward I
met the society, and concluded the day with a
general love-feast.
A Visit fiom Mr. Whitefield.
Thursday, Nov. 5. Mr. Whitefield called upon me;
disputings are now no more. We love one another,
and join hand in hand to promote the cause of our
common Master.
Wesley Suits his Subject to the Occasion.
MIonday, Nov. I7. As we were walking toward
Wapping the rain poured down with such violence
that we were obliged to take shelter till it abated.
We then held on to Gravel-lane, in many parts of
which the waters were like a river. However, we got
on pretty well till the rain put out the candle in our
lantern. We then were obliged to wade through all




1755.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       I73
till we came to the chapel-yard. Just as we entered
it a little streak of lightning appeared in the southwest. There was likewise a small clap of thunder
and a vehement burst of rain, which rushed so plentifully through our shattered tiles that the vestry was
all in a float. Soon after I began reading prayers
the lightning flamed all round it, and the thunder
rolled just over our heads. When it grew louder and
louder, perceiving many of the strangers to be muchaffrighted I broke off the prayers after the collect,
" Lighten our darkness, we beseech thee, 0 Lord,"
and began applying, "The Lord sitteth above the
water-flood; the Lord remaineth a king forever."
Presently the lightning, thunder, and rain ceased,
and we had a remarkably calm evening. It was
observed, that exactly at this hour they were acting
"Macbeth" in Drury-lane, and just as the mock
thunder began the Lord began to thunder out of
heaven. For a while it put them  to a stand, but
they soon took courage and went on.  Otherwise
it might have been suspected that the fear of God
had crept into the very theater!
Without the Hurry and Pomp of Dying.
Friday, Dec. 12. As I was returning from Zoar I
came as well as usual to Moorfields, but there my
strength entirely failed, and such a faintness and
weariness seized me that it was with difficulty I got
home. I could not but think how happy it would be
(suppose we were ready for the Bridegroom) to sink
down and steal away at once without any of the
hurry and pomp of dying!




174        Wesley his Own Historian.   [I755-56.
Wesley in the King's Robe-chamber.
Tuesday, Dec. 23. I was in the robe-chamber adjoining the House of Lords when the King put on
his robes. His brow was much furrowed with age,
and quite clouded with care. And is this all the
world can give even to a king? All the grandeur it
can afford? A blanket of ermine round his shoulders so heavy and cumbersome he can scarce move
under it! A huge heap of borrowed hair, with a few
plates of gold and glittering stones upon his head?
Alas, what a bauble is human greatness!
Peter the Great no Christian.
Friday, 7an. 30, I756. In returning to London I read
the life of the late Czar, Peter the Great. Undoubtedly he was a soldier, a general, and a statesman
scarce inferior to any.  But why was he called a
Christian?  What has Christianity to do. either with
deep dissimulation or savage cruelty?
Conference at Bristol,
Wednesday, Aug. 25. We rode on to Bristol.
Thursday, Aug. 26. About fifty of us being met, the
rules of the society were read over and carefully considered one by one, but we did not find any that could
be spared. So we all agreed to abide by them all,
and to recommend them with our might. We then
largely considered the necessity of keeping in the
Church and using the clergy with tenderness, and
there was no dissenting voice. God gave us all to
be of one mind and of one judgment.
Friday, Augg. 27. The rules of the bands were




1756.]      Wesley his Own' Historian.      175
read over and considered one by one; which, after
some verbal alterations, we all agreed to observe
and enforce.
Wesley's Gain by Printing and Preaching,
Monday, Sept. 6. I set out in the machine, and on
Tuesday evening came to London.  Wednesday and
Thursday I settled my temporal business. It is now
about eighteen years since I began writing and
printing books, and how much in that time have I
gained by printing? Why, on summing up my
accounts I found on March I, I756, (the day I left
London last,) I had gained by printing and preaching together a debt of twelve hundred and thirtysix pounds.
Criticism on the French Language.
Monday, Oct. I. I went to Leigh. Where we
dined, a poor woman came to the door with two little
children. They seemed to be half-starved as well as
their mother, who was also shivering with an ague. She
was extremely thankful for a little food, and still more
so for a few pills, which seldom fail to cure that disorder. In this little journey I read over a curiosity
indeed-a -French heroic poem, "Voltaire's Henriade."  He is a very lively writer, of a fine imagination; and allowed, I suppose, by all competent judges,
to be a perfect master of the French language; and
by him I was more than ever convinced that the
French is the poorest, meanest language in Europe;
that it is no more comparable to the German or
Spanish than a bagpipe is to an organ; and that,
with regard to poetry in particular, considering the




I76        iWesley his Own Historian.    [175 7
incorrigible uncouthness of their measure, and their
always writing in rhyme, (to say nothing of their
vile double rhymes, nay, and frequent false rhymes,)
it is as impossible to write a fine poem in French as
to make fine music upon a Jew's-harp.
Strength and Help from God.
Sunday, Feb. 27, 1757. After the service at Snowsfields I found myself much weaker than usual, and feared
I should not be able to go through the work of the
day, which is equal to preaching eight times. I
therefore prayed that God would send me help; and
as soon as I had done preaching at West-street, a
clergyman, who was come to town for a few days,
came and offered me his service. So when I asked
for strength, God gave me strength; when for help,
he gave this also.
Sunday, March 6. I had no help, and I wanted
none, for God renewed my strength; but on Sunday,
Mar. I3, finding myself weak at Snowsfields, I prayed
(if he saw good) that God would send me help at
the chapel, and I had it. - A clergyman, whom I
never saw before, came and offered me his assistance,
and as soon as I had done preaching Mr. Fletcher
came, who had just then been ordained priest, and
hastened to the chapel on purpose to assist, as he
supposed me to be alone.
Sunday, March 20. Mr. Fletcher helped me again.
How wonderful are the ways of God! When my
bodily health failed, and none in England were able and
willing to assist me, he sent me help from the mountains of Switzerland, and a helpmeet for me in every
respect. Where could I have found such another?




I757.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        177
A Society Meeting of Twelve Hundred,
Monday, April II. At five in the evei iing about
twelve hundred of the society met at Spitalfields. I
expected two to help me, but none came. I held out
till between seven and eight. I was then scarce able
to walk or speak; but I looked up and received
strength. At half-hour after nine God broke in mightily upon the congregation. "Great" indeed "was our
glorying" in him; we were "filled with consolation."
And when I returned home between ten and eleven,
I was no more tired than at ten in the morning.
The People of Huddersfield.
M11onday, May 9. I rode over the mountains to Huddersfield. A wilder people I never saw in England.
The men, women, and children filled the street as we
rode along, and appeared just ready to devour us.
They were, however, tolerably quiet while I preached;
only a few pieces of dirt were thrown, and the bellman came in the'middle of the sermon, but was
stopped by a gentleman of the town. I had almost
done, when they began to ring the bells, so that it
did us small disservice. How intolerable a thing is
the Gospel of Christ to them  who are resolved to
serve the devil!
Wesley Preaches on the Mountain-Top.
Wednesday, May i8. I rode in the afternoon from
Halifax over the huge, but extremely pleasant and
fruitful, mountains to Heptonstal. A large congregation was waiting for us, not only on the ground, but
on the side and tops of the neighboring houses. But
no scoffer or trifler was seen among them. It rained.12




178         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I757.
in the adjoining valley all or most of the time that I
was preaching; but it was fair with us on the top of
the mountain. What an emblem of God's taking up
his people into a place of safety while the storm falls
on all below!
An Audience of Lunatics and Paupers
Wednesday, _7une I. We rode on to Glasgow, a
mile short of which we met Mr. Gillies riding out to
meet us. In the evening the tent (so they call a
covered pulpit) was placed in the yard of the poorhouse, a very large and commodious place. Fronting
the pulpit was the Infirmary, with most of the patients
at or near the windows. Adjoining to this was the
hospital for lunatics; several of them gave deep attention. And cannot God give them also the spirit of
a sound mind? After sermon they brought four
children to baptize. I was at the kirk in the morning
while the minister baptized several immediately after
sermon, so I was not at a loss as to their manner of
baptizing. I believe this removed much prejudice.
Singing a Scotch Psalm.
Friday,?/une IO. I found myself much out of order
till the flux stopped at once without any medicine;'
but being still weak, and the sun shining extremely
hot, I was afraid I should not be able to go round by
Kelso. Vain fear! God took care for this also. The
wind, which had been full east for several days, turned
this morning full west, and blew just in our face; and
about ten the clouds rose and kept us cool till we
came to Kelso; At six William Coward and I went
to the market-house; we stayed some time, and




1757-58.]   Wcsley his Own Historian.      179
neither man, woman, nor child came near us. At
length I began singing a Scotch psalm, and fifteen or
twenty people came within hearing, but with great
circumspection keeping their distance, as though
they knew not what might follow. But while I prayed
their numbers increased, so that in a few minutes
there was a pretty large congregation. I suppose the
chief men of the town were there, and I spared
neither rich nor poor. I almost wondered at myself,
it not being usual with me to use so keen and cutting
expressions; and I believe many felt that, for all their
form, they were but heathens still.
Robbing the King.
Thursday, Ozone I6. In the evening I preached at
Sunderland. I then met the society and told them
plain none could stay with us unless he would part
with all sin; particularly, robbing the King, selling or
buying run goods, which I could no more suffer than
robbing on the highway; this I enforced on every
member the next day. A few would not promise to
refrain, so these I was forced to cut off. About two
hundred and fifty were of a better mind.
Wesley Rides Ninety Miles in a Day.
March, I758. Rest was now the more sweet, because both our horses were lame. However, resolving to reach Epworth at the time appointed, I set out
in a post-chaise between four and five in the morning; but the frost made it so bad driving that my
companion came with the lame horses into Stamford
as soon as me. The next stage I went on horseback;
but I was then obliged to leave my mare and take




180        Wesley his Own Historian.      [ 758.
another post-chaise.  I came to Bawtry about six.
Some from Epworth had come to meet me, but were
gone half an hour before I came. I knew no chaise
could go the rest of the road, so it remained only to
hire horses and a guide. We set out about seven,
but I soon found my guide knew no more of the way
than myself. However, we got pretty well to Idlestop,
about four miles from Bawtry, where we had just
light to discern the river at our side, and the country
covered with water. I had heard that one Richard
Wright lived' thereabouts, who knew the road over
the moor perfectly well. Hearing one speak, (for we
could not see him,) I called, "Who is there?" He
answered, "Richard Wright." I soon agreed with
him, and he quickly mounted his horse and rode
boldly forward. The north-east wind blew full in
our face, and I heard them  say, " It is very cold-!"
But neither my face, nor hands, nor feet were cold
till, between nine and ten, we came to Epworth; after
traveling more than ninety miles, I was little more
tired than when I rose in the morning.
A timely Supply of Money.
Monday, March 13. I preached in the shell of the
new house, and then set out for York. The banks
over which we crept along were ready to swallow up
man and beast; however, we came safe to York in
the afternoon. After settling the little affairs, on
[Wednesday, 15, I rode to Leeds, where, in the evening,
a multitude of people were present. I never before
saw things in so good order here, and took knowledge
the assistant had not been idle. I was apprehensive,
having been at an uncommon expense, of being




I758.]       Wesley his Own Historian.          I8
a little straitened for money; but after preaching,
one with whom I had never exchanged a word put
a letter into my hand in which was a bill for ten
pounds. Is not "the earth the Lord's, and the fullness thereof?"
Two Lost Hours.
Friday, April2I. I dined at Lady's. We need
great grace to converse with great people! From
which, therefore, (unless in some rare instances,) I am
glad to be excused.  Hore fuSgiunt et imputantur!
[The moments fly away, and must be accounted for!]
Of these two hours I can give no account.
A Church built of Mud and Straw.
Friday, May 5. In the evening I preached at Drumcree, in the new room built in the taste of the country.
The roof is thatch, the walls mud; on which a ladder
was suspended by ropes of straw.
The Preacherd Room at Terryhugan.
Tuesday, May 9. We rode by the side of the Canal,
through a pleasant vale, to Terryhugan. The room
built on purpose for us here is three yards long, two
and a quarter broad, and six feet high. The walls,
floor, and ceiling are mud;'and we had a clean chaff
bed. At seven I preached in a neighboring ground,
having a rock behind me and a large congregation
sitting on the grass before me. Thence we retired
to our hut, and found it true:
Licel, sub _5auhgere tecdo,
Reges et regurm vildt raecurrere amicos.
[It is possible, under a humble roof, to live more happily than
kings and their courtiers.]




I82         Yesley his Own Historian.     [1758.
Wesley Visits the dying Thomas Walsh.
Saturday, Yune 17. I met Thomas Walsh once
more in Limerick alive, and but just alive. Three of
the best physicians in these parts have attended him,
and all agree that it is a lost case; that, by violent
straining of his voice, added to frequent colds, he has
contracted a pulmonary consumption, which is now
in the last stage, and consequently beyond the reach
of any human help. O what a man to be snatched
away in the strength of his years! Surely thy judgments are a great deep!
Holds Conference at Limerick.
Wednesday, y5tne 2I. Our little Conference began,
at which fourteen preachers were present. We settled
all things here which we judged would be of use to
the preachers or the societies, and consulted how to
remove whatever might be a hinderance to the work
of God.
Preaches to a Colony of Germans.
Friday, Srune 23. I rode over to Court Mattress, a
colony of Germans, whose parents came out of the
Palatinate about fifty years ago. Twenty families of
them settled here; twenty more at Killiheen, a mile
off; fifty at Balligarane, about two miles eastward,
and twenty at Pallas, four miles further. Each family
had a few acres of ground, on which they built as
many little houses. They are since considerably increased in number of souls, though decreased in
number of families. Having no minister, they were
become eminent for drunkenness, cursing, swearing,
and an utter neglect of religion. But they are washed
since they heard and received the truth which is able




I758.]     Wesley hzis Own Historian.      I83
to save their souls. An oath is now rarely heard
among them, or a drunkard seen in their borders.
Court Mattress is built in the form of a square, in the
middle of which they have placed a pretty large
preaching-house; but it would not contain'one half
of the congregation, so I stood in a large yard. The
wind kept off the rain while I was preaching. As
soon as I ended it began.
Oliver Cromwell's Camp,
Sunday, r7une 25. About six I preached in the island
in a square green inclosure, which was formerly Oliver
Cromwell's camp. I have not seen such a congregation since we left London. To how much better purpose is this ground employed than it was in the last
century!
Symptoms of Consumption return.
Sunday, 7Yuy 2. I preached in the island near
Limerick both morning and evening, standing on the
side of a large hollow adjoining to the old camp. The
ground on the sides of it sloped upward, so that the
people sat on the grass row above row. Such an
amphitheater I never saw before, in which thousands
of hearers were so commodiously placed; and they
seemed earnestly to attend to our Lord's invitation,
"Come, for all things are now ready." I did not
then observe that I strained myself, but in the morning I was extremely hoarse. This increased all day,
together with a load and stoppage in my breast. On
Tuesday morning I began spitting blood, found a
pain in my left side, a sensible decay of strength, and
a deep wheezing cough, just the symptoms which I
had some years since.




1 84       1Wesley his Own Histo; ian.    [I 758.
Blessed Work among Children.
Sunday, 7zd/ 30. I began meeting the children in
the afternoon, though with little hopes of doing them
good. But I had not spoke long on our natural state
before many of them were in tears, and five or six so
affected that they could not refrain from crying aloud
to God. When I began to pray their cries increased,
so that my voice was soon lost. I have seen no such
work among children for eighteen or nineteen years.
Wesley always Preaching!
Monday, Auzgst 7. Being detained at Cork, in
the afternoon I went to the middle of the town.
Abundance of people ran together, but they were
far too wild and noisy to admit of my giving out
a psalm, or naming a text, in the usual way; so I fell
abruptly upon as many as could hear in a free and
familiar manner. In a few minutes the whole body
were quiet and tolerably attentive. They were more
and more serious till I concluded with a hymn and a
short prayer. Immediately after preaching I was
sent for to a gentleman who was struck with the
palsy. I found the house full of his friends and relations, to whom I spoke freely and largely. They
seemed to be more than ordinarily affected. Perhaps
for this also we were detained at Cove.
Prejudice overcome.
Wednesday, Dec. 20. I rode to Norwich. James
Wheatley now repeated his offer of the Tabernacle.
But I was in no haste. I wanted to consult my
friends, and consider the thing thoroughly. One
glaring objection to it was, "The congregation there
will not hear me." He replied, " Sir, you cannot tell




1758.1     Wesley his Own Historian.      185
that, unless you make the trial." I consented so to
do on Thursday, 2I. But many declared, "No, he
shall never come into that pulpit," and planted themselves in the way to prevent it. Hitherto only could
they go. I went up and preached to a large congregation without any let or hinderance. I preached
there again on Saturday evening, and again God
stopped the mouths of the lions.
Sunday, Dec. 24. I preached in the Tabernacle at
eight to a very serious congregation, and at the
Foundery between four and five. About six the
Tabernacle was thoroughly filled, and mostly with
quiet hearers. I saw none who behaved amiss but
two soldiers, who struck some that desired them to
be silent. But they were seized and carried to the
commanding officer, who ordered them to be soundly
whipped.
Monday, Dec. 25. Our service began in the Foundery
at four; in the Tabernacle at eight. God was now
especially pleased to make bare his arm. There was
a great cry among the people. Stony hearts were
broke, many mourners comforted, many believers
strengthened. Prejudice vanished away; a few only
kept their fierceness till the afternoon. One of these,
still vehemently angry, planted himself just over
against me. But before I concluded he cried out,
"I am overcome! I am overcome!"  Having now
weighed the matter thoroughly, I yielded to the importunity of our brethren. So in the evening the
copy of the lease was perfected, which was executed
the next morning. A whole train of providences so
plainly concurred thereto, that all might clearly see
the hand of God.




I 86        Wesley his Own Historian.   [I 75 8-59.
Famous Castle at Colchester.
Friday, Dec. 29. To-day I walked all over the famous Castle, perhaps the most ancient in England.
A considerable part of it is, without question, fourteen
or fifteen hundred years old. It was mostly built with
Roman bricks, each of which is about two inches
thick, seven broad, and thirteen or fourteen long. Seat
of ancient kings, British and Roman, once dreaded far
and near! But what are they now? Is not " a living
dog better than a dead lion?"  And what is it
wherein they pride themselves, as do the present
great ones'of the earth?
A little pomp, a little sway,
A sunbeam in a winter's day,
Is all the great and mighty have
Between the cradle and the grave!
Wesley Resting.
Saturday, Dec. 30. I returned to London, and received a pressing letter from Bristol; in consequence
of which I took horse on Monday morning, 7an. I,
I /59, and came hither the next evening. After
resting two days, (only preaching morning and evening,) I examined severally the members of the society.
This was one great end of my coming down. Another
was to provide for the poor. Accordingly on Sunday,
yan. 7, I preached a sermon for them, to which God
was pleased to give his blessing; so that the collection
was a great deal more than double what it used to be.
Let them have their Own Way.
Sunday, March I 8, I759. I administered the Lord's
Supper to near two hundred communicants; so
solemn a season I never remember to have known in




I759.]     Wesley his Own Histoyian.       x87
the city of Norwich. As a considerable part of them
were dissenters, I desired every one to use what
posture he judged best. Had I required them to
kneel, probably half would have sat. Now all but
one kneeled down. Finding it was needful to see
them once more at Colchester, I took horse between
four and five in the morning. The frost was extremely sharp for some hours; it was then a fair,
mild day. About two in the afternoon it began to
rain, but we reached Colchester before we were wet
through. The room was more than filled in the
evening, so that many were obliged to go away.
Wednesday, MNarch 2I. I baptized seven adults, two
of them by immersion; and in the evening (their
own ministers having cast them out for going to hear
the Methodists) I administered the Lord's Supper to
them, and many others, whom their several teachers
had repelled for the same reason.
New regulations.
Sunday, April I. I met them all at six, requiring
every one to show his ticket when he came in, a
thing they had never heard of before. I likewise insisted on another strange regulation: that the men
and women should sit apart. A third was made the
same day. It had been the custom, ever since the
Tabernacle was built, to have the galleries full of
spectators while the Lord's Supper was administered.
This I judged highly improper, and therefore ordered
none to be admitted but those who desired to communicate. And I found far less difficulty than I expected in bringing them to submit to this also. The
society now contained above five hundred and seventy




i88         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I1759.
members, a hundred and three of whom were in no
society before, although many of them had found
peace with God. I believe they would have increased
to a thousand if I could have stayed a fortnight longer.
Which of these will hold fast their profession? The
fowls of the air will devour some, the sun will scorch
more, and others will be choked by the thorns
springing up. I wonder we should ever expect that
half of those who " hear the word with joy" will bring
forth fruit unto perfection.
Smugglers not tolerated,
Friday, Yune 22. I rode to S    k, and preached
to my old congregation of colliers on "Why will ye
die, O house of Israel?" After preaching, a servant
of Mr. -  came and said, "Sir, my master discharges you from preaching any more on his ground;
not out of any disrespect to you, but he will stand by
the Church."  "Simple master Shallow!" as Shakspeare has it; wise master Rector, his counselor!
Saturday, irune 23. I spoke to each of the society
in Sunderland. Most of the robbers, commonly
called smugglers, have left us; but more than twice
the number of honest people are already come in
their place; and if none had come, yet should I not
dare to keep those who steal either from the King or
subject.
The Devil does not love Field-Preaching.
Sunday, Yune 24. I preached in the street at eight;
about one at South Shields, and at five in North
Shields. The greatest part of them seemed to hear




1759.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        I89
as for their lives. So are these lions also become
lambs.  O for zealous, active, faithful laborers! How
white are the fields unto the harvest!  On Monday
and Tuesday evening I preached abroad, near the
Keelmen's Hospital, to twice the people we should
have had at the house.  What marvel the devil does
not love field-preaching?  Neither do I. I love a
commodious room, a soft cushion, a handsome pulpit.
But where is my zeal if I do not trample all these
under foot in order to save one more soul!
Wesley's Letter to Dr. Taylor.
Tuesday, Yzdy 3. I wrote to Dr. Taylor as follows:
" REV. SIR: I esteem you as a person of uncommon sense and learning; but your doctrine I cannot
esteem. And some time since I believed it my duty
to speak my sentiments at large concerning your
doctrine of Original Sin. When Mr. Newton, of
Liverpool, mentioned this, and asked whether you
designed to answer, you said you thought not, for it
would only be a personal controversy between Jo.
W     y and Jo. T-   r. How gladly, if I durst,
would I accept of this discharge from so unequal a
contest!  For I am thoroughly sensible, humanly
speaking, it isformica contra leonemn, [an ant against
a lion.] How gladly, were it indeed no other than a
personal controversy! But certainly it is not; it is a
controversy de re, [concerning a thing,] if ever there
was one in the world. Indeed, concerning a thing
of the highest importance; nay, all the things that
concern our eternal peace.  It is Christianity or
Heathenism! For take away the scriptural doctrine
of redemption or justification, and that of the new




Igo         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I759.
birth, the beginning of sanctification; or, which
amounts to the same, explain them as you do, suitably to your doctrine of Original Sin, and what is
Christianity better than Heathenism?  Wherein
(save in rectifying some of our notions) has the
religion of St. Paul any pre-eminence over that of
Socrates or Epictetus?
"This is, therefore, to my apprehension, the least
personal controversy of any in the world.  Your
person and mine are out of the question. The point
is,'Are those things that have been believed for
many ages throughout the Christian world real solid
truths, or monkish dreams and vain imaginations?'
"But further, it is certain between you and me
there need be no personal- controversy at all. For
we may agree to leave each other's person and character absolutely untouched, while we sum up and
answer the several arguments advanced -as plainly
and. closely as we can. Either I or you mistake the
whole of Christianity from the beginning to the end.
Either my scheme or yours is as contrary to the
scriptural as the Koran is. Is it mine or yours?
Yours has gone through all England and made
numerous converts. I attack it from end to end; let
all England judge whether it can be defended or
not.
" Earnestly praying that God may give you and me
a right understanding in all things, I am, reverend sir,
"Your servant for' Christ's sake,    J. W."
Plain Talk.
Wednesday, Aufg. 29. I rode to Lakenheath, and
spoke exceeding plain to an honest, drowsy people.




[I759.     Wesley his Own Historian.       xI9I
Thursday, Auzg. 30. I preached at the Tabernacle
in Norwich to a large, rude, noisy congregation.  I
took knowledge what manner of teachers they had
been accustomed to, and determined to mend them
or end them. Accordingly, the next evening, after
sermon, I reminded them of two things: the one,
that it was not decent to begin talking aloud as soon
as service was ended, and hurrying to and fro as in a
bear-garden; the other, that it was a bad custom to
gather into knots just after sermon and turn a place
of worship into a coffee-house.  I, therefore, desired
that none would talk under that roof, but go quietly
and silently away. And on Sunday, Sept. 2, I had
the pleasure to observe that all went as quietly
away as if they had been accustomed to it for many
years.
Mlonday, Sept. 3. I met the society at five, and explained the nature and use of meeting in a class.
Upon inquiry, I found we have now about five hundred members.  But a hundred and fifty of these do
not pretend to meet at all.  Of those, therefore,
I make no account.  They hang on but a single
thread.
Tuesday, Sept. 4. I walked to Kemnal, nine miles
from Norwich, and preached at one o'clock. The
ringleader of the mob came with his horn, as usual,
before I began.  But one quickly catched and threw
away his horn, and in a few minutes he was deserted
by all his companions, who were seriously and deeply
attentive to the great truth, " By grace ye are saved,
through faith."
Sunday, Sept. 9. I met the society at seven, and told
them in plain terms that they were the most ignorant,




192         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I759.
self-conceited, self-willed, fickle, untractable, disorderly, disjointed society that I knew in the three
kingdoms. And God applied it to their hearts, so
that many were profited; but I do not find that one
was offended. At ten we had another happy opportunity, and many stubborn hearts were melted down.
Just at two the great congregation met, and the
power of God was again present to heal; though not
so eminently as at five, while I was describing "the
peace that passeth all understanding."
Wesley's Loss of a Night's Sleep.
Monday, Sept. IO. We took horse at half-hour after
four. Before eight it was as warm as it is usually at
midsummer. And from ten we had the sun in our
face all the way to Colchester. But we had the
wind in our face too, or the heat would have been
insupportable. I was in a fever from the moment I
came into the house. But it did not hinder me-from
preaching on the Green, and afterward meeting the
society.  I then lay down as soon as possible, but
could not sleep a quarter of an hour till between two
and three in the morning. I do not know that I
have lost a night's sleep before, sick or well, since I
was six years old. But it is all one: God is able to
give strength, either with sleep or without it. I rose
at my usual time, and preached at five, without any
faintness or drowsiness.
Expediency of Field-Preaching.
Sunday, Sept. 23. A vast majority of the immense
congregation in Moorfields were deeply serious. One
such hour might convince any impartial man- of the




1759.] -   W esley his Own Historian.' 93
expediency of field-preaching.  What building, except St. Paul's Church, would contain such a congregation? And if it would, what human voice could
have reached them there? By repeated observations
I find I can command thrice the number in the open
air that I can under a roof. And who can say the
time for field-preaching is over, while, I. Greater
numbers than ever attend. 2. The converting, as
well as the convincing, power of God'is eminently
with them!
His Care for French Prisoners.
Monday, Oct. I5. I walked up to Knowle, a mile
from Bristol, to see the French prisoners. Above
eleven hundred of them, we were informed, were
confined in that little place without any thing to lie
upon but a little dirty straw, or any thing to cover
them but a few foul thin rags, either by day or night, so
that they died like rotten sheep. I was much affected,
and preached in the evening on, (Exodus xxiii, 9,)
"Thou shalt not oppress a stranger; for ye know
the heart of a stranger, seeing ye were strangers in
the land of Egypt."  Eighteen pounds were contributed immediately, which were made up four-andtwenty the next day. With this we bought linen
and woolen cloth, which were made up into shirts,
waistcoats, and breeches.  Some dozen of stockings
were added, all of which were carefully distributed
where there was the greatest want.  Presently after,
the Corporation of Bristol sent a large quantity of
mattresses and blankets. And it was not long before
contributions were set on foot in London, and in
various parts of the kingdom; so that I believe from
13




194         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1759.
this time they were pretty well provided with all
the necessaries of life.
Wesley prefers to Preach to the Poor.
Saturday, Nov. 17. I spent an hour agreeably and
profitably with Lady G-    H-   and Sir Ca
H. It is well a few of the rich and noble are
called. O that God would increase their number!
But I should rejoice (were it the will of God) if it
were done by the ministry of others. If I might
choose I should say, (as I have done hitherto,) preach
the Gospel to the poor.
A Strange Preaching-Place.
Friday, Nov. 23. The roads were so extremely slippery it was with much difficulty we reached Bedford.
We had a pretty large congregation; but the stench
from the swine under the room was scarce supportable.
Was ever a preaching-place over a hogsty before!
Surely they love the Gospel who come to hear it
in such a place.
Wesley's Views of Visions and Trances,
Saturday, Nov. 24. We rode to  Everton, Mr.
Berridge being gone to preach before the University
at Cambridge.  Many people came to his house
in the evening, and it was a season of great refreshment.
Sunday, Nov. 25. I was a little afraid my strength
would not suffice for reading prayers, and preaching,
and administering the Lord's Supper alone to a large
number of communicants; but all was well. Mr.
Hicks began his own service early, and came before




1759.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       195
I had ended my sermon. So we finished the whole
before two, and I had time to breathe before the
evening service. In the afternoon God was eminently
present with us, though rather to comfort than convince. But I observed a remarkable difference since
I was here before as to the manner of the work.
None now were in trances, none cried out, none fell
down or were convulsed; only some trembled exceedingly, a low murmur was heard, and many were
refreshed with the multitude of peace.
The danger was, to guard extraordinary circumstances too much, such as outcries, convulsions,
visions, trances, as if these were essential to the
inward work, so that it could not go on without
them. Perhaps the danger is, to regard them too
little, to condemn them all together, to imagine they
had nothing of God in them, and were a hinderance
to his work. Whereas the truth is, I. God suddenly
and strongly convinced many that they were lost
sinners; the natural consequence whereof were sudden outcries and strong bodily convulsions. 2. To
strengthen and encourage them that believed, and to
make his work more apparent, he favored several of
them with divine dreams; others with trances and
visions. 3. In some of these instances, after a time,
nature mixed with grace. 4. Satan likewise mimicked this work of God, in order to discourage the
whole work; and yet it is not wise to give up this
part any more than to give up the whole. At first
it was, doubtless, wholly from God. It is partly so at
this day; and he will enable us to discern how far
in every case the work is pure, and where it mixes
or degenerates.




I96         Wesley his Own Historian    [1759-60.
Let us even suppose that in some few cases there
was a mixture of dissimulation, that persons pretended to see or feel what they did not, and imitated
the cries or convulsive motions of those who -were
really overpowered by the Spirit of God; yet even
this should not make us either deny or undervalue
the real work of the Spirit. The shadow is no disparagement of the substance, nor the counterfeit of
the real diamond. We may further suppose, that
Satan will make these visions an occasion of pride;
but what can be inferred -from hence?  Nothing, but
that we should guard against it:; that we should
diligently exhort all to be little in their own eyes,
knowing that nothing avails with God but humble
love. But still, to slight or censure visions in general
would be both irrational and unchristian.
Pretended Message from God.
Wednesday,'an. 16, I 760. One came to me, as she
said, with a message from-the Lord, to tell me I was
laying up treasures on earth, taking my ease, and
minding only my eating and drinking. I told her
God knew me better; and if he had sent her, he
would have sent her with a more proper message.
As clear..a Witness of Sanctification as:of Justification.
Wednesday, March 12. Having desired that as many
as could of the neighboring towns, who believed they
were saved from sin, would meet me, I spent the
greatest part of this day in examining them one by
one. The testimony of some I could not receive; but,
concerning the far greatest part, -it is plain, (unless
they could be supposed to tell willful and deliberate




176o.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        I97
lies,) I. That they feel no inward sin; and, to the
best of their knowledge, commit no outward sin.
2. That they see and love God every moment, and
pray, rejoice, give thanks evermore.  3. That they
have constantly as clear a witness from God of
sanctification as they have of justification. Now in
this I do rejoice, and will rejoice, call it what you
please; and I would to God thousands had experienced thus much: let them afterward experience as
much more as God pleases.
Causes of Ireland's Troubles.
Monday, April 2I. In riding to Rosmead I read
Sir John Davis's " Historical Relations concerning
Ireland." None who reads these can wonder that,
fruitful as it is, it was always so thinly inhabited; for
he makes it plain, I. That murder was never capital
among -the native Irish; the murderer only paid a
small fine to the Chief of his Sept. 2. When the
English settled here, still the Irish had no benefit of
the English laws. They could not so much as sue
an Englishman. So the English beat, plundered,
yea, murdered them at pleasure. Hence, 3, arose
continual wars between them for three hundred and
fifty years together; and hereby both the English
and Irish natives were kept few, as well as poor.
4. When they were multiplied during a peace of forty
years, from I6oo to I64I, the general massacre, with
the ensuing war, again thinned their numbers; not
so few as a million of men, women, and children
being destroyed in four years' time. 5. Great numbers have ever since, year by year, left the land
merely for want of employment. 6. The gentry are




198         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I760.
continually driving away hundreds, yea, thousands, of
them that remain, by throwing such quantities of arable
land into pasture, which leaves them neither business nor food. This it is that now dispeoples many
parts of Ireland, of Connaught in particular, which,
it is supposed, has scarce half the inhabitants at this
day which it had fourscore years ago.
The Prophet's Chamber built of Marble.
Monday, April 28. I rode to Rathfriland, seven
Irish miles from Newry, a small town built on the
top of a mountain, surrounded first by a deep valley,
and at a small distance by higher mountains. The
Presbyterian minister had wrote to the Popish priest
to keep his people from hearing. But they would not
be kept; Protestants and Papists flocked together to
the meadow where I preached, and sat on the grass
still as night, while I exhorted them to "repent and
believe the Gospel." The same attention appeared in
the whole congregation at Terryhugan in the evening,
where I spent a comfortable night in the Prophet's
Chamber, nine feet long, seven broad, and six high.
The ceiling, floor, and walls were all of the same
marble, vulgarly called clay.
A Justice of the Peace heads the Mob.
rune IO. At noon William Ley, James Glasbrook,
and I rode to Carrick-upon-Shannon. In less than
an hour an Esquire and Justice of the Peace came
down with a drum, and what mob he could gather. I
went into the garden with the congregation while he
was making a speech to his followers in the street. He
then attacked William Ley, (who stood at the door,)
being armed with a halbert and long sword, and ran




1760.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       199
at him with the halbert, but missing his thrust he
then struck at him, and broke it short upon his wrist.
Having made his way through the house to the other
door he was at a full stop. James Glasbrook held it
fast on the other side. While he was endeavoring to
force it open one told him I was preaching in the
garden. On this he quitted the door in haste, ran
round the house, and, with part of his retinue, climbed
over the wall into the garden, and with a whole volley
of oaths and curses declared, " You shall not preach
here to-day."  I told him, "Sir, I do not intend it,
for I have preached already."  This made him
ready to tear the ground. Finding he was not to be
reasoned with I went into the house.  Soon after he
revenged himself on James Glasbrook (by breaking
the truncheon of his halbert on his arm) and on my
hat, which he beat and kicked most valiantly; but a
gentleman rescued it out of his hands, and we rode
quietly out of the town.
German Settlements in Ireland.
Wednesday,  uldy 9. I rode over to Killiheen, a
German settlement near twenty miles south of Limerick. It rained all the way, but the earnestness of
the poor people made us quite forget it. In the evening I preached to another colony of Germans at Ballygarane. The third is at Court Mattress, a mile
from  Killiheen.  I suppose three such towns are
scarce to be found again in -England or Ireland.
There is no cursing or swearing, no Sabbath breaking, no drunkenness, no ale-house, in any of them.
How will these poor foreigners rise up in the judgment against those that are round about them?




200        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I760.
Character of Wesley's Hearers at St, Ives.
[Wednesday, Sept. Io. When I came to St. Ives I was
determined to preach abroad, but the wind was so high
I could not stand where I had intended. But we
found a little inclosure near it, one end of which was
native rock, rising ten or twelve feet perpendicular,
from which the ground fell with an easy descent.
A jutting out of the rock, about four feet from the
ground, gave me a very convenient pulpit.  Here
well-nigh the whole town, high and low, rich and
poor, assembled together. Nor was there a word to
be heard, or a smile seen, from one end of the congregation to the other.  It was just the same the
three following evenings. Indeed, I was afraid on
Saturday that the roaring of the sea raised by the
north wind would have prevented their hearing.
But God gave me so clear and strong a voice that I
believe scarce one word was lost.
Sunday, Sept. I4. At eight I chose a large ground,
the sloping side of a meadow, where the congregation.stood, row above row, so that all might see as well as
hear. It was a beautiful sight. Every one seemed
to take to himself what was spoken. I believe every
backslider in the town was there. And surely God
was there to "heal their backslidings."  I began at
Zennor, as soon as the Church-service was ended.
I suppose scarce six persons went away.  Seeing
many there who did once run well, I addressed myself to them in particular. The spirit of mourning
was soon poured out, and some of them wept bitterly.
O "that the Lord may yet return unto them, and
"leave a blessing behind him!"  At five I went
once more into the ground of St. Ives and found




I760.]      Wesley his Ownt HiStoriaz.         20
such a congregation as I think was never seen in
a place before (Gwennap excepted) in this country.
Some of the chief of the town were now not in the
skirts, but in the thickest of the people. The clear
sky, the setting sun, the smooth, still water, all agreed
with the state of the audience.  Is any thing too
hard for God? May we not say in every sense,
Thou dost the raging sea control,
And smooth the prospect of the deep;
Thou mak'st the sleeping billows roll,
Thou mak'st the rolling billows sleep i
Wesley Preaches Thirty Times in Eleven Days.
M/ontday,  Sept. 22. I preached at Penryn in the
evening.  It rained before and after, but not while I
was preaching. While we were at prayer a sheet of
light seemed to fill the yard, and " the voice of the
Lord" was heard over our heads. This fixed the
impression they had received upon the minds of
many, as if it had said in express terms, "Prepare
to meet thy God!"  On Wednesday evening, having
(over and above meeting the societies) preached thirty
times in eleven days, I found myself a little exhausted;
but a day's rest set me up; so on Friday, Sept. 26, I
preached at noon again near Liskeard.  In the afternoon we had rain and wind enough, and when we
came to Saltash no boat would venture out, so we
were obliged to take up our lodgings there.
Meets the Children at Bristol.
Sunday, Oct. I2. I visited the classes at Kingswood.  Here only there is no increase-; and yet,
where was there such a prospect till that weak man,




202         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I 76o.
John Cennick, confounded the poor people with
strange doctrines? O what mischief may be done
by one that means well! We see no end of it to this
day. In the afternoon I had appointed the children to meet at Bristol, whose parents were of the
society.  Thirty of came to-day, and above fifty
more on the Sunday and Thursday following. About
half of these I divided into four classes, two of boys
and two of girls, and appointed proper leaders to meet
them  separate.  I met them  all together twice a
week, and it was not long before God began to touch
some of their hearts. On Tuesday and Wednesday I
visited some of the societies in the country. On
Thursday I returned to Bristol, and in the afternoon
preached a charity sermon in Newgate for the use
of the poor prisoners.  On the three following days
I spoke severally to the members of the society. As
many of them increase in worldly goods, the great
danger I apprehended now is their relapsing into the
spirit-world, and then their religion is but a dream.
King George gathered to his Fathers.
Saturday, Oct. 25. King George was gathered to
his fathers.  When will England have a better
prince? Many of us agreed to observe Friday, Oct.
3I, as a day of fasting and prayer for the blessing of
God upon our nation, and in particular on his present
majesty. We met at five, at nine, at one, and at
half hour past eight. I expected to be a little tired, but
was more lively after twelve at night than I was
at six in the morning.




I76.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        203
Comforted by the Law,
Thursday, 5/an. 22, 176I. We had our first watchnight at the Tabernacle, at which I could not but observe, though I preached the law from the beginning
of my sermon to the end, yet many were exceedingly
comforted. So plain is it that God can send either
terror or comfort to the heart by whatever means it
pleaseth him.
Chapels Filled on Fast-Day.
_Monday, Feb. 9, and the following days, I visited
the classes.
Friday, Feb. 13, being the general fast-day, the
chapel in West-street, as well as the rest, was thoroughly filled with serious hearers.  Surely God is
well pleased with even these outward humiliations, as
an acknowledgment that he is the Disposer of all
events; and they give some check, if it be but for a
time, to the floods of ungodliness. Besides, we cannot doubt but there are some good men in most of
the congregations then assembled, and we know
"the effectual fervent prayer," even of one " righteous
man, availeth much."
The True Catholic Ohuroh.
The Catholic Church is, the whole body of men,
endued with faith working by love, dispersed over
the whole earth, in Europe, Asia, Africa, and America. And this Church is "ever one;" in all ages and
nations it is the one body of Christ. It is "ever
holy," for no unholy man can possibly be a member
of it. It is "ever orthodox;" so is every holy man,
in all things necessary to salvation, "secured against




204         Wesley his Ow n Historian.    [I76I.
error " in things essential " by the perpetual presence
of Christ, and ever directed by the Spirit of truth"
in the truth that is after godliness. This Church has
a "perpetual succession of Pastors and Teachers,
divinely appointed and divinely assisted." And there
has never been wanting in the Reformed Churches
such a succession of Pastors and Teachers, men both
divinely appointed and divinely assisted, for they convert sinners to God, a work none can do unless God
himself doth appoint them thereto, and assist them
therein; therefore, every part of this character is
applicable to them. Their Teachers are the proper
successors of those who have delivered down through
all generations the faith once delivered to the saints,
and their members have true spiritual communion
with the "one holy" society of true believers; consequently, although they are not the whole "people
of God," yet are they an undeniable part of his
people.
On the contrary, the Church of Rome, in its
present form, was not "founded by Christ himself."
All the doctrines and practices wherein she differs
from us were not instituted by Christ-they were
unknown to the ancient Church of Christ-they are
unscriptural, novel corruptions: neither is that Church
"propagated throughout the world."  Therefore, if
either antiquity or universality be essential thereto,
the Church of Rome cannot be "the true Church
of Christ."
Nor is the Church of Rome one; it is not in unity
with itself; it is to this day torn with numberless
divisions. And it is impossible it should be "the
one Church," unless a part can be the whole; seeing




176 I.]    Wesley his Ownz Historian.       205
the Asiatic, the African, and the Muscovite Churches
(to name no more) never were contained in it.
Neither is it holy; the generality of its members are
no holier than Turks or Heathens. You need not
go far for proof of this; look at the Romanists in
London or Dublin. Are these the holy, the only
holy Church?  Just such holiness is in the bottomless pit. Nor is it "secured against error" either
"by Christ" or "his Spirit;" witness Pope against
Pope, Council against Council, contradicting, anathematizing each other. The instances are too numerous to be recited.
Neither are the generality of her "Pastors and
Teachers " either "divinely appointed" or "divinely
assisted." If God had sent them he would confirm
the word of his messengers; but he does not. They
convert no sinners to God.  They convert many to
their own opinion, but not to the knowledge or love
of God.  He that was a drunkard is a drunkard
still; he that was filthy is filthy still; therefore,
neither are they "assisted by him; so they and
their flocks wallow in sin together; consequently
(whatever may be the case of some particular
souls) it must be said, the Roman  Catholics in
general are not "the people of God."
Ready at a Moment's Notice.
iMay 4. About noon I took a walk to the King's
College, in Old Aberdeen. It has three sides of a
square, handsomely built, not unlike Queen's College
in Oxford. Going up to see the hall, we found a
large company of ladies, with several gentlemen.
They looked and spoke to one another, after which




206        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I76I
one of the gentlemen took courage and came to me.
He said, "We came last night to the college close,
but could not hear, and should be extremely obliged
if you would give us a short discourse here." I knew
not what God might have to do, and so began without delay on, "God was in Christ reconciling the
world unto himself." I believe the word was not
lost; it fell as dew on the tender grass.
An Ancient Chapel.
May I6. About noon I preached at Warksworth to
a congregation as quiet and attentive as that at Alnwick. How long shall we forget that God can raise
the dead? Were not we dead till he quickened us?
A little above the town, on one side of the river,
stands the remains of a magnificent castle. On the
other side, toward the bottom of a steep hill, covered
with wood, is an ancient chapel, with several apartments adjoining to it, hewn in the solid rock. The
windows, the pillars, the communion table, and several
other parts, are entire. But where are the inhabitants? Gathered to their fathers, some of them, I
hope, in Abraham's bosom, till rocks, and rivers, and
mountains flee away, and the dead, small and great,
stand before God!
Unfaithful Pastors,
Monday, May 25. I rode to Shields, and preached
in an open place to a listening multitude. Many of
them followed me to South Shields, where I preached
in the evening to almost double the congregation.
How ripe for the Gospel are these also! What is
wanting but more laborers? More! Why is there




176i.]      VEesley his Own Historian.       207
not here (as in every parish in England) a particular
minister, who takes care of all their souls? There is
one here who takes charge.of all their souls; what
care of them he takes is another question. It may
be he neither knows nor cares whether they are
going to heaven or hell. Does he ask man, woman,
or child any questions about it from one Christmas
to the next?  O what account will such a pastor
give to the Great Shepherd in that day!
Wesley finds a Limit to his Physical Powers.
Monday, June 15. I rode to Durham, having appointed to preach there at noon. The meadow near
the river side was quite convenient, and the small
rain neither disturbed me nor the congregation. In
the afternoon I rode to Hartlepool, but I had much
ado to preach; my strength was gone as well as my
voice, and, indeed, they generally go together. Three
days in a week I can preach thrice a day without
hurting myself; but I had now far exceeded this,
besides meeting classes and exhorting the societies.
I was obliged to lie down a good part of Tuesday;
however, in the afternoon I preached at Cherington,
and in the evening at Hartlepool again, though not
without difficulty.
Wednesday, June I 7. I rode to Stockton, where, a little before the time of preaching, my voice and strength
were restored at once. The next evening it began to
rain just as I began to preach; but it was suspended
till the service was over. It then rained again till
eight in the morning.




20o8       Wesley his Own Historian.     [I76I.
Two Bands of Childre
Monday, 7une 22. I spoke, one by one, to the
society at Hutton Rugby. They were about eighty
in number, of whom near seventy were believers, and
sixteen (probably) renewed in love. Here were two
bands of children, one of boys and one of girls, most
of whom were walking in the light. Four of those
who seemed to be saved from sin were of one family,
and all of them walked holy and unblamable, adorning the doctrine of God their Saviour.
Conversion of a Condemned Criminal,
Wednesday, Oct. 21. I was desired by the condemned prisoners to give them one sermon more.
And on Thursday, Patrick Ward, who was to die
on that day, sent to request I would administer the
sacrament to him. He was one-and-twenty years of
age, and had scarce ever had a serious thought till
he shot the man who went to take away his gun.
From that instant he felt a turn within, and never
swore an oath more. His whole behavior in prison
was serious and composed; he read, prayed, and
wept much, especially after one of his fellow-prisoners
had found peace with God.  His hope gradually
increased till this day, and was much strengthened at
the Lord's Supper; but still he complained, " I am not
afraid, but I am not desirous to die. I do not find that
warmth in my heart; I am not sure my sins are forgiven."  He went into the cart about twelve, in
calmness, but mixed with sadness.  But in a quarter
of an hour, while he was wrestling with God in
prayer, (not seeming to know that any one was near




I76 1-62.]   Wesley his Own Historian.     209
him,) "The Holy Ghost," said he, "came upon me,
and I knew that Christ was mine."  From  that
moment his whole deportment breathed a peace and
joy beyond all utterance till, after having spent about
ten minutes in private prayer, he gave the sign.
"A Fool of a Saint."
December. Preaching at Deptford, Welling, and
Sevenoaks, in my way, on Thursday, December 3, I
came to Shoreham. There I read the celebrated
"Life of St. Katharine, of Genoa."  Mr. Lesley
calls one a devil of a saint; I am sure this was a fool
of a saint; that is, if it was not the folly of the historian, who has aggrandized her into a mere idiot.
Indeed, we seldom find a saint of God's making
sainted by the Bishop of Rome.
Perseverance Rewarded.
Wfednesday, Mfarch 30, I762. Having been invited
to preach at Wem, Mrs. Glynne desired sThe might
take me thither in a post-chaise; but in little more
than an hour we were fast enough; however, the
horses pulled till the traces broke. I should then
have walked on had I been alone, though the mud
was deep, and the snow drove impetuously; but I
could not leave my friend, so I waited patiently till
the man had made shift to mend the traces, and the
horses pulled amain; so that with much ado, not long
after the time appointed, I came to Wem.
I came, but the person who invited me was gone;
gone out of town at four in the morning, and I could
find no one who seemed either to expect or desire
my company. I inquired after the place where Mr.
I4




210        TWesley his Own Historian.     [I 762.
Mather preached, but it was filled with hemp. It
remained only to go into the market-house, but
neither any man, woman, nor child cared to follow us,
the north wind roared so loud on every side, and
poured in from every quarter. However, before I
had done singing two or three crept in, and after
them two or three hundred; and the power of God
was so present among them that I believe many
forgot the storm. The wind grew still higher in the
afternoon, so that it was difficult to sit our horses;
and it blew full in our face, but could not prevent our
reaching Chester in the evening. Though the warning was short, the room was full; and full of serious,
earnest hearers, many of whom expressed a longing
desire of the whole salvation of God.
Absolution no Antidote to the Fear of Death.
ntulyy 6. In the evening I preached at Waterford, in
a court adjoining to the main street.
Wednesday, Aptly 7. Four of the Whiteboys, lately
condemned for breaking open houses, were executed.
They were all, notwithstanding the absolution of
their priest, ready to die for fear of death. Two or
three of them laid fast hold on the ladder, and could
not be persuaded to let it go. One in particular gave
such violent shrieks as might be heard near a mile
off. O what but love can cast out the fear of death!
And how inexpressibly miserable is that bondage!
On this and the two following days God remembered
poor Waterford also. Several backsliders were healed,
and many awoke out of sleep; and some mightily
rejoiced in God their Saviour.




1762.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       2 I
"Be silent, or begonie."
yuly I I. At six in the evening I began preaching
in the old Bowling Green near the castle. Abundance
of people, Protestants and Papists, gathered from all
parts. They were very still during the former part
of the sermon; then the Papists ran together, set up
a shout, and would have gone further, but they were
restrained, they knew not how. I turned to them
and said, "Be silent, or begone!"  Their noise
ceased, and we heard them no more; so I resumed
and went on with my discourse, and concluded
without interruption. When I came out of the Green
they gathered again, and gnashed upon me with their
teeth; one cried out, " 0 what is Kilkenny come to! "
But they could go no further. Only two or three large
stones were thrown, but none was hurt, save he that
threw them; for as he was going to throw again,
one seized him by the neck and gave him a kick
and a cuff, which spoiled his diversion.
Poor dead Portarlington.
Saturday,  iuly 17. I went on to poor dead Portarlington. And no wonder it should be so, while the
preachers coop themselves up in a room with twenty
or thirty hearers. I went straight to the marketplace and cried aloud, "Hearken! Behold a sower
went forth to sow." God made his word quick and
powerful, and sharp as a two-edged sword. Abundantly more than the room could contain were present
at five in the morning. At eight I began in the
market-place again on, " How shall I give thee up,
Ephraim?" Solemn attention sat on every face, and




212        Wesley his Own Historian.     [1762.
God repeated his call to many hearts. In the evening
I preached in the market-place at Tullamore.
Monday,  uly I9. Between two and three in the
morning was such thunder and lightning as I never
knew in Europe. The crack and the flash were in
the same instant. Most of the houses shook, and yet
no hurt was done in the whole town; but some good
was done, for at five o'clock the preaching-house was
quite filled, and the inward voice of the Lord was
mighty in operation. This also was "a glorious
voice."
The Work of Holiness in Dublin and London,
Yuly. On examination I found three or four-and-forty
in Dublin who seemed to enjoy the pure love of God;
at least forty of these had been set at liberty within
four months. Some others, who had received the
same blessing, were removed out of the city. The
same, if not a larger number, had found remission of
sins. Nor was the hand of the Lord shortened yet:
he still wrought as swiftly as ever.
In some respects the work of God in this place was
more remarkable than even that in London. I. It is
far greater in proportion to the time and to the number of people. That society had above seven-andtwenty hundred members; this not a fifth part of the
number. Six months after the flame broke out there
we had about thirty witnesses of the great salvation.
In Dublin there were above forty in less than four
months. 2. The work was more pure. In all this
time, while they were mildly and tenderly treated,
there were none of them headstrong or unadvisable;
none that were wiser than their teachers; none who




I 762.]    Wesley his Own Historian.       213
dreamed of being immortal or infallible, or incapable
of temptation; in short, no whimsical or enthusiastic
persons; all were calm and sober-minded. I know
several of these were, in process of time, moved from
their steadfastness. I am nothing surprised at this;
it was no more than might be expected; I rather
wonder that more were not moved. Nor does this,
in any degree, alter my judgment concerning the
great work which God then wrought.
Wesley's old opponent, the Bishop of Lavington
Sunday, Aufg. 29. I preached at eight on Southernay Green to an extremely quiet congregation. At
the cathedral we had a useful sermon, and the whole
service was performed with great seriousness and
decency. Such an organ I never saw or heard before,
so large, beautiful, and so finely toned; and the music
of "Glory be to God in the highest," I think, exceeded
the Messiah itself. I was well pleased to partake of
the Lord's Supper with my old opponent, Bishop
Lavington. O may we sit down together in the
kingdom of our Father! At five I went to Southernay Green again, and found a multitude of people;
but a lewd, profane, drunken vagabond had so stirred
up many of the baser sort that there was much noise,
hurry, and confusion. While I was preaching several
things were thrown, and much pains taken to overturn the table; and, after I concluded, many endeavored to throw me down, but I walked through the
midst and left them.




2I4        Wesley his Own Historian.       [1762.
Pretty Butterflies.
Tuesday, Sept. I4. I preached in Lelan about one,
and in the evening near the Quay at St. Ives. Two
or three pretty butterflies came, and looked, and
smiled, and went away; but all the rest of the
numerous congregation behaved with the utmost
seriousness.
How Believers suffer Loss.
Wednesday, Sept.  5. We had our quarterly meeting. The next day I appointed the children to meet;
I expected twenty, but I suppose we had fourscore,
all of them wanting, many desiring, instruction. The
more I converse with the believers in Cornwall the
more I am convinced that they have sustained great
loss for want of hearing the doctrine of Christian perfection clearly and strongly enforced. I see wherever
this is not done the believers grow dead and cold.
Nor can this be prevented but by keeping up in
them an hourly expectation of being perfected in love.
I say an hourly expectation, for to expect it at death,
or some time hence, is much the same as not expecting it at all.
No.more Cheating the King.
September. The night came on soon after we were
on horseback, and we had eight miles to ride.  In
about half an hour it was so dark I could not see my
hand, and it rained incessantly. However, a little
after eight God brought us safe to Cubert. I preached
at the Church Town the next day, and on Tuesday,
21, rode on to Port Isaac. Here the stewards of the
eastern circuit met. What a change is wrought in




1762.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        215
one year's time! The detestable practice of cheating
the King is no more found in our societies. And
since that accursed thing has been put away, the
work of God has every-where increased.  This
society in particular is more than doubled, and they
are all alive to God.
Wesley Guided by his own Conscience.
Monday, Nov. 8. I began visiting the classes, in
many of which we had hot spirits to deal with.
Some were vehement for, some against, the meetings
for prayer, which were in several parts of the town.
I said little, being afraid of taking any step which I
might afterward repent of. One I heard of on Friday,
and five on Saturday, who, if I did not act as they
thought best, would leave the society. I cannot help
it; I must still be guided by my own conscience.
Lives of eminent Romish Saints.
]Monday, Nov. 29. I retired to transcribe my answer to Bishop Warburton. My fragments of time I
employed in reading and carefully considering the
Lives of Magdalen de Pazzi, and some other eminent
Romish saints. I could not but observe, I. That
many things related therein are highly improbable.
I fear the relators did not scruple lying for the Church,
or for the credit of their order; 2. That many of their
reputed virtues were really no virtues at all, being no
fruits of the love of God or man, and no part of the
mind which was in Christ Jesus; 3. That many of
their applauded actions were neither commendable
or imitable; 4. That what was really good in their
tempers or lives was so deeply tinctured with enthu



216        Wesley his Own Historian.   [1762-63.
siasm, that most readers would be far more likely to
receive hurt than good from these accounts of them.
Review of the Year.
Friday, Dec. 31. I now stood and looked back on
the past year, a year of uncommon trials and uncommon blessings. Abundance have been convinced of
sin, very many have found peace with God, and in
London only, I believe, full two hundred have been
brought into glorious liberty. And yet I have had
more care and trouble in six months than in several
years preceding. What the end will be I know not,
but it is enough that God knoweth.
A Beautiful Reply.
Saturday, yan. 1, I763. A woman told me, "Sir,
I employ several men. Now, if one of my servants
will not follow my direction, is it not right for me to
discard him at once? Pray, do you apply this to
Mr. Bell?" I answered, " It is right to discard such
a servant; but what would you do if he were your
son?"
The World to End that Night.
Monday, Feb. 28. Preaching in the evening at Spitalfields on "Prepare to meet thy God," I largely
showed the utter absurdity of the supposition that
the world was to end that night. But notwithstanding all I could say many were afraid to go to bed,
and some wandered about in the fields, being persuaded that if the world did not end, at least London
would be swallowed up by an earthquake. I went
to bed at my usual time, and was fast asleep about
ten o'clock.




1763.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       2I7
A brief Interview with Mr. Whitefield.
May. I went on at leisure, and came to Edinburgh on Saturday, May 21.  The next day I
had the satisfaction of spending a little time with
Mr. Whitefield. Humanly speaking, he is worn out;
but we have to do with Him who hath all power in
heaven and earth.
MkIonday, May 23, I rode to Forfar, and on Tuesday,
24, rode on to Aberdeen.
A Congregation of Ministers, Nobility, and Gentry.
Sunday, May 29. I preached at seven in the High
School-yard at Edinburgh.  It being the time of the
General Assembly, which drew together not the ministers only, but abundance of the nobility and gentry,
many of both were present; but abundantly more at
five in the afternoon.  I spoke as plain as ever I
did in my life. But I never knew any in Scotland
offended at plain dealing. In this respect the North
Britons are a pattern to all mankind.
The Right Construction.
Tuesday, rune 6. So deep and general was the
impression now made upon the people, that even at
five in the morning I was obliged to preach abroad,
by the numbers who flocked to hear, although the
northerly wind made the air exceeding sharp. A
little after preaching, one came to me who believed
God had just set her soul at full liberty. She had been
clearly justified long before; but said the change she
now experienced was extremely different from what
she experienced then, as different as the noon-day




2 I8       Wesley his Own Historian.     [1763.
light from that of daybreak; that she now felt her
soul all love, and quite swallowed up in God. Now
suppose, ten weeks or ten months hence, this person
should be cold or dead, shall I say, "She deceived
herself; this was merely the work of her own imagination?"  Not at all. I have no right so to judge,
nor authority so to speak. I will rather say, "She
was unfaithful to the grace of God, and so cast away
what was really given."  Therefore that way of talking, which has been very common, of staying "to
see if the gift be really given," which some take to
be exceedingly wise, I take to be exceedingly foolish.
If a man says, " I now feel nothing but love," and I
know him to be an honest man, I believe him. What
then should I stay to see? Not whether he has such
a blessing, but whether he will keep it.
A new Error Counteracted.
Saturday, 7/une I I. I rode to Epworth, and preached
at seven in the market-place.
Sunday, June I2. I preached at the room in the
morning; in the afternoon, at the market-place; and
about one the congregation gathered from all parts
in Haxey parish, near Westwood-side. At every place
I endeavored to settle the minds of the poor people,
who had been not a little harassed by a new doctrine
which honest Jonathan C     and his converts had
industriously propagated among them, that "there
is no sin in believers." I trust that this plague is
also stayed; but how ought these unstable ones to
be ashamed who are so easily "tossed about with
every wind of doctrine!"




I763.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       219
Association and Training Necessary.
Wednesday, Aug. 24. I rode over to Haverfordwest.
Finding it was the Assize week, I was afraid the bulk of
the people would be too busy to think about hearing
sermons. But I was mistaken; I have not seen so
numerous a congregation since I set out of London;
and they were, one and all, deeply attentive. Surely
some will bring forth fruit.
Thursday, Aung. 25. I was more convinced than
ever that the preaching like an apostle, without joining
together those that are awakened, and training them
up in the ways of God, is only begetting children for
the murderer. How much preaching has there been
for these twenty years all over Pembrokeshire! But
no regular societies, no discipline, no order or connection; and the consequence is, that nine in ten of
the once-awakened are now faster asleep than ever.
Satan makes Use of Honest, but Ignorant Christians.
Saturday, Aug. 27. I preached at seven to one or
two hundred people, many of whom seemed full of
good desires. But as there is no society, I expect
no deep or lasting work. Mr. Evans now gave me
an account from his own knowledge of what has made
a great noise in Wales: " It is common in the congregations attended by Mr. W. W., and one or two
other clergymen, after the preaching is over, for any
one that has a mind, to give out a verse of a hymn.
This they sing over and over with all their might,
perhaps above thirty, yea, forty times. Meanwhile the
bodies of two or three, sometimes ten or twelve, are
violently agitated, and they leap up and down, in all
manner of postures, frequently for hours together."




220         Wesley his Own Historian.     [1763
I think there needs no great penetration to understand this. They are honest, upright men, who really
feel the love of God in their hearts. But they have
little experience, either of the ways of God or the
devices of Satan.  So he serves himself of their
simplicity in order to wear them out, and to bring a
discredit on the work of God. About two I preached
at Cowbridge in the Assembly-room, and then went
on to Llandaff. The congregation was waiting, so I
began without delay, explaining to them the righteousness of faith. A man had need to be all fire who
comes into these parts, where almost every one is
cold as ice; yet God is able to warm their hearts and
make rivers run in the dry places.
The Poison of Mysticism.
Sunday, Aug. 28. I preached once more in W   --
Church, but it was hard work. Mr. H. read the
prayers (not as he did once, with such fervor and
-solemnity as struck almost every hearer, but) like
one reading an old song, in a cold, dry, careless manner, and there was no singing at all. Thence I rode
to Cardiff, and found the society in as ruinous a condition as the castle. The same poison of Mysticism
has well-nigh extinguished the last spark of life here
also. I preached in the Town Hall on "Now God
commanded all men every-where to repent."  There
was a little shaking among the dry bones; possibly
some of them may yet " come together and live."
No other Way to Reach the Outcasts.
Sunday, Sept. 4. I preached on the quay, when multitudes attended who would not have come to the



1763-64.]   Wesley his Own Historian.       221
other end of the city. In the afternoon I preached
near the new square. I find no other way to reach
the outcasts of men. And this way God has owned,
and does still own, both by the conviction and conversion of sinners.
Saturday, Sept. I7. I preached on the Green at
Bedminster. I am apt to think that many of the
hearers scarce ever heard a Methodist before, or perhaps any other preacher. What but field preaching
could reach these poor sinners? And are not their
souls also precious in the sight of God?
Renewing the Covenant
Monday, Dec. 26. I began preaching at a large commodious place in Bartholomew Close. I preached there
again on Wednesday, and at both times with peculiar
liberty of spirit. At every place this week I endeavored to prepare our brethren for renewing their
covenant with God.
Sunday, f1/an. I, I764. We met in the evening for
that solemn purpose. I believe the number of those
that met was considerably larger than it was last
year. And so was the blessing: truly the consolations of God were not small with us. Many were
filled with peace and joy, many with holy fear, and
several backsliders were healed. On some of the
following days I visited the little societies near
London.
Thursday, fan. I2. I preached at Mitcham,and in
the afternoon rode to Dorking. But the gentleman
to whose house I was invited seemed to have no desire
I should preach.  So that evening I had nothing
to do.




222        Wesley his Own Historian.     [1764.
Friday, ian. 13. I went at noon into the street, and
in a broad place, not far from the market-place, proclaimed " the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ." At first
two or three little children were the whole of my congregation; but it quickly increased, though the air was
sharp and the ground exceedingly wet, and all behaved
well but three or four grumbling men, who stood so
far off that they disturbed none but themselves. I
had purposed to preach there again in the morning;
but a violent storm made it impracticable. So, after
preaching at Mitcham in the way, I rode back to
London.
Wesley preaches the Terrors of the Lord.
Thursday, j/an. I9. I rode through Oxford to
Henley. The people here bear no resemblance to
those of Witney. I found a wild, staring congregation, many of them void both of common sense and
common decency. I spoke exceedingly plain to them
all, and reproved some of them sharply.
Friday,:zan. 20. I took (probably my final) leave
of Henley, and returned to London.
Monday, Fan. 23. I rode to Sundon, and preached
in the evening to a very quiet and very stupid people.
How plain is it, that even to enlighten the understanding is beyond the power of man! After all our preaching here, even those who have constantly attended no
more understand us than if he had preached in
Greek.
Thursday, 7an. 26. Returning from Bedford, I tried
another way to reach them. I preached on " Where
their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched;"
and set before them the terrors of the Lord in the
strongest manner I was able. It seemed to be the




1764.]     Wesley his. Own Historian.        223
very thing they wanted. They not only listened with
the deepest attention, but appeared to be more affected
than I had ever seen them by any discourse whatever.
Wesley's Objection to the Mystic Writers.
Sunday, Feb. 5. I began Mr. Hartley's ingenious
"Defense of the Mystic Writers." But it does not
satisfy me. I must still object, I. To their sentiment. The chief of them do not appear to me to
have any conception of Church communion, Again,
they slight not only works of piety, the ordinances
of God, but even works of mercy. And yet most of
them, yea, all that I have seen, hold justification by
works. In general, they are "wise above what is
written," indulging themselves in many unscriptural
speculations. I object, 2. To their spirit, that most
of them are of a dark, shy, reserved, unsociable temper; and that they are apt to despise all who differ
from them, as carnal unenlightened men. I object,
3. To their whole phraseology. It is both unscriptural and affectedly mysterious.  I say affectedly,
for this does not necessarily result from the nature
of the, things spoken of. St. John speaks as high
and as deep things as Jacob Behmen. Why, then,
does not Jacob speak as plain as him?
Criticism on an Oratorio.
Friday, Feb. 24. I returned to London.
Wednesday, Feb. 29. I heard "Judith," an Oratorio,
performed at the Lock. Some parts of it were exceeding fine; but there are two things in all modern
pieces of music which I could never reconcile to common sense: one is, singing the same words ten times




224         Wesley his Owne Historian.    [1764.
over; the other, singing different words by different persons, at one and the same time. And this in the most
solemn addresses to God, whether by way of prayer or
thanksgiving. This can never be defended by all the
musicians of Europe till reason is quite out of date.
A Token for Good.
Monday, March 26. I was desired to preach at
Walsal. James Jones was alarmed at the motion,
apprehending there would be much disturbance.
However, I determined to make the trial. Coming
into the house, I met with a token for good. A woman
was telling her neighbor why she came: "I had a
desire," said she, " to hear this man, yet I durst not,
because I heard so much ill of him; but this morning I dreamed I was praying earnestly, and I heard
a voice saying,' See the eighth verse of the first
chapter of St. John.' I waked, and got my Bible and
read,' He was not that light, but was sent to bear witness of that light.' I got up, and came away with
all my heart."
An Odd Circumstance.
Saturday, March 3. An odd circumstance occurred
during the morning preaching. It was well only
serious persons were present. An ass walked gravely
in at the gate, came up to the door of the house,
lifted up his head, and stood stock still in a position
of deep attention.  Might not "the dumb beast
reprove " many who have far less decency and not
much more understanding?
A Wise Choice.
Thursday, April 5. About eleven I preached at
Elsham. The two persons who are the most zealous



1764.]      Wesley his- Own Historian.      225
and active here are'the steward and gardener of a
gentleman whom  the minister persuaded to turn
them off unless they would leave "his way."  He
gave them a week to consider of it; at the end of
which they answered, "Sir, we choose rather to
want bread here than to want'a drop of water'
hereafter." He replied, " Then follow your own conscience, so you do my business as well as formerly."
Wesley thrown from his Horse,
Friday, April 6. I preached at Ferry at nine in the
morning and in the evening, and about noon in Sir N.
H.'s hall at Gainsborough.  Almost as soon as I
began to speak a cock began to crow over my head 
but he was quickly dislodged, and the whole congregation, rich and poor, were quiet and attentive.
Sunday, April 8. I set out for Misterton, though
the common road was impassable, being all under
water; but we found a way to ride round. I preached
at eight, and I saw not one inattentive hearer. In our
return, my mare, rushing violently through a gate,
struck my heel against the gate-post, and left me
behind her in an instant, laid on my back at full
length. She stood still till I rose and mounted again;
and neither of us was hurt at all.
High time to Prophesy on the Dly Bones,
Wednesday, April I. Between eight and nine I
began preaching- at Beverley, in a room which is
newly taken. It was filled from end to end, and that
with serious hearers. Perhaps even these may know
the day of their visitation. About one I began at
Pocklington.  Here, likewise, all were quiet, and
15




226        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I 764.
listened with deep attention. When I came to York,
at five in the afternoon, I was fresher than at seven
in the morning. During the preaching many were
not a little comforted; and one old follower of Christ,
more than seventy years of age, was now  first
enabled to call him Lord by the Holy Ghost. I
found that a most remarkable deadness had overspread this people, insomuch that not one had received
remission of sins for several months last past. Then
it is high time for us to prophesy on these dry bones,
that they may live. At this I more immediately
pointed in all my following discourses, and I
have reason to believe God spoke in his word. To
him be all the glory!
A Cold Reception explained.
April 17. In consequence of repeated invitations I
rode to Helmsley. When I came Mr. Conyers was
not at home; but, his housekeeper faintly asking me,
I went in. By the books lying in the window and
on the table, I easily perceived how he came to be so
cold now who was so warm  a year ago. Not one
of ours, either verse or prose, was to be seen, but
several of another kind. 0 that our brethren were
as zealous to make Christians as they are to make
Calvinists! He came home before dinner, and soon
convinced me that the Philistines had been upon
him. They had taken huge pains to prejudice him
against me, and so successfully, that he did not even
ask me to preach, so I had thoughts of going on;
but in the afternoon he altered his purpose, and I
preached in the evening to a large congregation. He
seemed quite surprised, and was convinced for tihe




1764.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       227
present that things had been misrepresented. But
how long will the conviction last? Perhaps till next
month.
Christian Resignation.
Saturday, April 2I. I visited one who'was ill in
bed; and, after having buried seven of her family in
six months, had just heard that the eighth, her beloved husband, was cast away at sea. I asked, "Do
not you fret at any of those things?"  She said,
with a lovely smile upon her pale cheek, "0 no!
How can I fret at any thing which is the will of
God? Let him take all besides: he has given
me himself.- I love, I praise him every moment."
Let any that doubts of Christian Perfection look on
such a spectacle as this! One in such circumstances
rejoicing evermore, and continually giving thanks.
Beginning at the Wrong End,
Monday, May 21. I took my leave of Newcastle,
and about noon preached in the market-place at
Morpeth. A few of the hearers were a little ludicrous at first; but their mirth was quickly spoiled.
In the evening I preached in the court-house at Alnwick, where I rested the next day.
Wednesday, May 23. I rode over the sands to Holy
Island, once the famous seat of a Bishop, now the
residence of a few poor families, who live chiefly by
fishing. At one side of the town are the ruins of a
cathedral, with an adjoining monastery. It appears
to have been a lofty and elegant building, the middle
aisle being almost entire. I preached, in what was
once the market-place, to almost all the inhabitants
of the island, and distributed some little books among




228        Wesley his Own Historian.     [1764.
them, for which they were exceeding thankful. In
the evening I preached at Berwick-upon-Tweed; the
next evening at Dunbar; and on Friday, May 25,
about ten, at Haddington, in Provost D.'s yard, to a
very elegant congregation.  But I expect little good
will be done here, for we begin at the wrong end;
religion must not go from the greatest to the least,
or the power would appear to be of men. In the
evening I preached at Musselborough, and the next
on the Calton Hill at Edinburgh. It being the time
of the General Assembly, many of the ministers
were there. The wind was high and sharp, and blew
away a few delicate ones. But most of the congregation did not stir till I had concluded.
Edinburgh General Assembly.
Monday, May 28. I spent some hours at the General
Assembly, composed of about a hundred and fifty
ministers. I was surprised to find, I. That any one
was admitted, even lads, twelve or fourteen years old.
2. That the chief speakers were lawyers, six or seven
on one side only. 3. That a single question took up
the whole time, which, when I went away, seemed to
be as far from a conclusion as ever, namely, " Shall
Mr. Lindsay be removed to Kilmarnock parish or
not? " The argument for it was, "He has a large
family, and this living is twice as good as his own."
The argument against it was, "The people are resolved not to hear him, and will leave the kirk if he
comes." If, then, the real point in view had been, as
their law directs, majus bonumn Ecclesiw, [the greater
good of the Church,] instead of taking up five hours,
the debate might have been determined in five




1764.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        229
minutes. On Monday and Tuesday I spoke to the
members of the society severally.
Thursday, May 31. I rode to Dundee, and, about
half an hour after six, preached on the side of a meadow
near the town. Poor and rich attended. Indeed,
there is seldom fear of wanting a congregation in
Scotland. But the misfortune is, they know every
thing; so they learn nothing.
Wesley's Treatment of Bankrupts.
Monday, 7uly 2. I gave a fair hearing to two of
our brethren who had proved bankrupts. Such we
immediately exclude from our society, unless it plainly
appears not to be their own fault. Both these were
in a prosperous way till they fell into that wretched
trade of bill-broking, wherein no man continues long
without being wholly ruined. By this means, not
being sufficiently accurate in their accounts, they
ran back without being sensible of it. Yet it was
quite clear that J- R- is an honest man. I would
hope the same concerning the other.
A Peculiarity in Mr. Wesley.
Tuesday, duly 3. I was reflecting on an odd circumstance, which I cannot account for.  I never
relish a tune at first hearing, not till I have almost
learned to sing it; and, as I learn it more perfectly,
I gradually lose my relish for it. I observe something similar in poetry; yea, in all the objects of
imagination. I seldom relish verses at first hearing;
till I have heard them over and over, they give me
no pleasure; and they give next to none when I have
heard them a few times more, so as to be quite




230         Wesley his Ownw Historian.    [1764.
familiar. Just so, a face or a picture which does not
strike me at first becomes more pleasing as I grow
more acquainted with it; but only to a certain point,
for when I am too much acquainted it is no longer
pleasing. O how imperfectly do we understand even
the machine which we carry about us!
A Sharp Appeal to a Retreating Hearer,
Thursday, Yuly 5. I had the comfort of leaving our
brethren at Leeds united in peace and love. About
one I preached in a meadow at Wakefield.  At first
the sun was inconvenient; but it was not many
minutes before that inconvenience was removed by
the clouds coming between.  We had not only a
larger, but a far more attentive, congregation than
ever was seen here before. One, indeed, a kind of
gentleman, was walking away with great unconcern,
when I spoke aloud, " Does Gallio care for none of
these things? But where will you go, with the wrath
of God on your head, and the curse of God on your
back?" He stopped short, stood still, and went no
further till the sermon was ended.
Wesley preaches three times a Day for ten Days in succession,
Saturday, Yuly 7. I rode to Huddersfield, and
preached between eleven and twelve. At half after;one we took horse. The sun shone burning hot, and
the wind was in our back; but very soon the sky was
overcast, and the wind changed and blew just in our
face all the way to Manchester. It was with difficulty
that I preached in the evening, my voice being exceedingly weak; as I had preached three times a day
-for ten days, and many of the times abroad.




1764.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       23 
Danger of Riches.
Wednesday, july I I. I gave all our brethren a
solemn warning not to love the world or the things
of the world. This is one way whereby Satan will
surely endeavor to overthrow the present work of
God. Riches swiftly increase on many Methodists,
so called; what but the mighty power of God can
hinder them setting their hearts upon them? and if
so, the life of God vanishes away.
Nothing in the House but a Dram of Gin.
uldy 3 I. Gower is a large tract of land bounded by
Brecknockshire on the northeast, the sea on the
southwest, and rivers on the other sides. Here all
the people talk English, and are in general the most
plain and- loving people in Wales. It is, therefore. no
wonder that they received "the word with all readiness of mind."  Knowing that they were scattered
up and down, I had sent two persons on Sunday, that
they might be there early on Monday, and so sent notice
of my coming all over the country; but they came to
Oxwych scarce a quarter of an hour before me, so.that the poor people had no notice at all; nor was
there any to take us in, the person with whom the
preacher used to lodge being three miles out of town.
After I had stayed a while in the street, (for there.was no public house,) a poor woman gave me house
room. Having had nothing since breakfast, I was
very willing to eat or drink; but she simply told me
she had nothing in the house but a dram of gin.
However, I afterward procured a dish of tea at
another house, and was much refreshed. About
seven I preached to a little company, and again in the




232         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1764.
morning. They were all attention, so that even for
the sake of this handful of people I did not regret my
labor.
English Law on Church Consecration.
Monday, Aug. 20. I went to Canterbury, and opened
our new chapel by preaching on " One thing is needful." How is it that many Protestants, even in England, do not know that no other consecration of
church or chapel is allowed, much less required, in
England than the performance of public worship
therein? This is the only consecration of any church
in Great Britain which is necessary, or even lawful.
It is true, Archbishop Laud composed a form of consecration; but it was never allowed, much less
established, in England. Let this be remembered by
all who talk so idly of preaching in unconsecrated
places!
Wesley hooked into a little Dispute,
Tuesday, Oct. 9. I was desired to meet Mr. B., and
we had a good deal of conversation together. He
seems to be a person of middling sense, but a most
unpleasing address. I would hope he has some little
experience of religion, but it does not appear to adventage, as he is extremely hot, impetuous, overbearing, and impatient of contradiction. He hooked me,
unawares, into a little dispute; but I cut it short as
soon as possible, knowing neither was likely to convince the other. So we met and parted in peace.
Transitions in the Norwich Society,
Friday, Oct. I 2. I returned to Norwich and inquired
into the state of the society. I have seen no people
in all England or Ireland so changeable as this. This




I764.]     Wesley his Own Historian.      233
society, in 1755, consisted of eighty-three members;
two years after, of a hundred and thirty-four; in I758
it was shrunk to a hundred and ten. In March,
1759, we took the Tabernacle, and within a month
the society was increased to above seven hundred
and sixty. But nearly five hundred of these had
formerly been with James Wheatley, and having been
scattered abroad, now ran together, they hardly knew
why. Few of them were thoroughly awakened, most
deeply ignorant; all bullocks unaccustomed to the
yoke, having never had any rule or order among them,
but every man doing what was right in his own eyes.
It was not therefore strange that the next year only
five hundred and seven of these were left. In I76I
they were further reduced, namely, to four hundred
and twelve. I cannot tell how it was that, in 1762,
they were increased again to six hundred and thirty.
But the moon soon changed, so that, in 1763, they
were shrunk to three hundred and ten. This large
reduction was owing to the withdrawing the sacrament, to which they had been accustomed from the
time the Tabernacle was built. They are now sunk
to a hundred and seventy-four, and now probably the
tide will turn again.
The right kind of Pupils.
Thursday, Nov. 8. At ten (and so every morning)
I met the preachers that were in town, and read over
with them the " Survey of the Wisdom of God in the
Creation." Many pupils I had at the University,
and I took some pains with them, but to what effect?
What is become of them now? How many of them
think either of their tutor or their God? But, blessed




234        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I764.
be God! I have had some pupils since who well
reward me for my labor. Now "I live;" for "ye
stand fast in the Lord."
The Power of Prejudice.
Monday, Nov. 12. I retired to Hoxton to answer
what was personal in the letters ascribed to Mr. Hervey. How amazing is the power of prejudice! Were
it not for this, every one who knew him and me would
have cried out with indignation, " Whatever Mr. W.
was, none can commend or excuse Mr. H. Such
bitterness he ought not to have shown to his most
cruel enemy; how much less to the guide of his
youth, to one he owns to have been his'father and
his friend!'"
"As so many drops of Blood."
Monday, Nov. I9, and the other afternoons of this
week, I took up my cross, and went in person to the
principal persons in our society in every part of the
town. By this means, within six days, near six
hundred pounds were subscribed toward the public
debt; and what was done, was done with the utmost
cheerfulness. I remember but one exception; only
one gentleman squeezed out ten shillings, as so many
drops of blood.
Majestic in Decay,
Saturday, Dec. 8. I saw one who, many years ago,
was a " minister of God to us for good " in repressing
the madness of the people: Sir John Gonson, who
was near fifty years a magistrate, and has lived more
than ninety. He is majestic in decay, having few
wrinkles, and not stooping at all, though just dropping




1764-65.]   Wesley his Own Historian.      235
into the grave, having no strength, and little memory
or understanding. Well might that good man, Bishop
Stratford, pray, " Lord, let me not live to be useless!"
And he had his desire; he was struck with a palsy
in the evening, praised God all night, and died in the
morning.
Monday, Dec. Io, and the three following days, I
visited Canterbury, Dover, and Sandwich, and returned to London on Friday, I4. In the machine I
read Mr. Baxter's book upon apparitions. It contains
several well-attested accounts, but there are some
which I cannot subscribe to. How hard is it to keep
the middle way; not to believe too little or too much!
Three Young Men Prostrated.
Monday, March I8, I765. I rode to Stroud, and in
the evening preached in the new house. But a considerable part of the congregation were obliged to
stand without. Toward the close of the sermon a
young man dropped down and vehemently cried to
God. This occasioned a little hurry at first, but it
was soon over, and all was quiet as before. After
supper I was speaking a little, when a young gentleman cried out, " I am damned!" and fell to the ground.
A second did so quickly after, and was much convulsed, and yet quite sensible. We joined in prayer,
but had not time (it growing late) to wrestle with God
for their full deliverance.
Afrtaid of Honor.
Sunday, May I2. At eight I preached in Derry to
a large number of people. About eleven Mr. Knox
went with me to church, and led me to a pew where




236         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1765.
I was placed next the Mayor. What is this? What
have I to do with honor? Lord, let me always fear,
not desire it. The afternoon service was not over till
about half an hour past six. At seven I preached to
near all the inhabitants of the city. I think there
was scarce one who did not feel that God was there.
So general an impression upon a congregation I have
hardly seen in any place.
Monday, gay I3, and the following days, I had
leisure to go on with the Notes on the Old Testament.
But I wondered at the situation I was in, in the midst
of rich and honorable men! Whilst this lasts it is
well. And it will be well too when any or all of them
change their countenance,
"And wonder at the strange man's face
As one they ne'er had known."
Extract from a Letter on Perfection,
May. But how came this opinion into my mind?
I will tell you with all simplicity. In I725 I met
with Bishop Taylor's " Rules of Holy Living and Dying." I was struck particularly with the chapter upon
intention, and felt a fixed intention " to give myself up
to God." In this I was much confirmed soon after by
the " Christian Pattern," and longed to give God all
my heart. This is just what I mean by Perfection
now; I sought after it from that hour.
In I727 I read Mr. Law's "Christian Perfection"
and " Serious Call," and more explicitly resolved to be
all devoted to God in body, soul, and spirit. In 1730
I began to be homo unius libri, [a man of One Book;]
to study (comparatively) no book but the Bible. I
then saw, in a stronger light than ever before, that




1765.]      Wesley h/is Own Historian.        237
only one thing is needful, even faith that worketh by
the love of God and man, all inward and outward
holiness; and I groaned to love God with all my
heart, and to serve him with all my strength.
January I, I733, I preached the sermon on the
Circumcision of the Heart, which contains all that I
now teach concerning salvation from all sin, and
loving God with an undivided heart. In the same
year I printed, (the first time I ventured to print any
thing,) for the use of my pupils,'A  Collection of
Forms of Prayer;' and in this I spoke explicitly of
giving "the whole heart and the whole life to God."
This was then, as it is now, my idea of Perfection,
though I should have started at the word.
In 1735 I preached my farewell sermon at Epworth, in Lincolnshire. In this likewise I spoke with
the utmost clearness of having one design, one desire,
one love, and of pursuing the one end of our life in
all our words and actions.
In January, 1738, I expressed my desire in these
words'
w" O grant that nothing in my soul
May dwell but thy pure love alone!
O may thy love possess me whole,
My joy, my treasure, and my crown!
Strange flames far from my heart remove:
My every act, word, thought, be love."
And I am still persuaded this is what the Lord
Jesus hath bought for me with his own blood.
Now, whether you desire and expect this blessing
or not, is it not an astonishing thing that you, or any
man living, should be disgusted at me for expecting
it; and that they should persuade one another that
this hope is "subversive of the very foundations of




238         Wesley his Own Historian.     [i765.
Christian experience?" Why, then, whoever retains
it cannot possibly have any Christian experience at
all. Then my brother, Mr. Fletcher, and I, and
twenty thousand more, who seem to fear and to love
God, are, in reality, children of the devil, and in the
road to eternal damnation!
In God's name I entreat you make me sensible of
this! Show me by plain, strong reasons what dishonor this hope does to Christ, wherein it opposes
justification by faith, or any fundamental truth of religion. But do not wrest, and wire-draw, and color
my words, as Mr. Hervey (or Cudworth) has done,
in such a manner, that when I look in that glass I
do not know my own face! "Shall I call you," says
Mr. Hervey, " my father or my friend? For you have
been both to me." So I was, and you have as well
requited me! It is well my reward is with the Most
High.
Wishing all happiness to you and yours, I am, dear
sir, your affectionate brother and servant,
JOHN WESLEY.
Mr. Seed's Sermons.
Thursday, May 23. Lighting on a volume of Mr.
Seed's sermons, I was utterly surprised. Where did
this man lie hid, that I never heard of him all the
time I was at Oxford? His language is pure in the
highest degree, his apprehension clear, his judgment
strong. And for true manly wit, and exquisite turns
of thought, I know not if this century has produced
his equal.
Honor and Dishonor balance eaoh other,
Tuesday, May 28. We breakfasted at Ballyshannon,
I believe the largest and pleasantest town in the




1765.]       Wesley his Own Historian.      239
county. Beyond it a good-natured man overtook
me, with whom I talked largely and closely.  He
seemed much affected; if it continues, well; if not, I
am clear of his blood. About twelve we stopped at
a little house, but a cloud of smoke soon drove us out
of the first room into another, where the landlord lay
with a grievously bruised and swelled leg. I directed
him how to cure it, and thence took occasion to give
him some further advice. Several eagerly listened as
well as himself. Perhaps some will remember it.
In the evening I took my usual stand in the markethouse, at Sligo; but here how was the scene changed!
I have seen nothing like this since my first entrance
into the kingdom. Such a total want of good sense,
of good manners, yea, of common decency, was shown
by not a few of the hearers! It is good to visit Sligo
after Londonderry; honor and dishonor balance each
other.
"Every bullet has its billet."
Thursday, 7une 6. I was brought on my way by
Lieutenant Cook, who was in all the actions at Fort
William Henry, at Louisbourg, Quebec, Martinico,
and the Havannah, and gave a more distinct account
of those eminent scenes of providence than ever I
heard before. Although he was so often in the front
of the battle, both against Indians, French, and
Spaniards, and in the hottest fire, both advancing and
retreating, he never received one wound. So true is
the odd saying of King William, that " every bullet
has its billet."  Between five and six we reached
Ennis, after a warm day, which much exhausted my
strength; but it was soon repaired, and the serious,




240        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I765
well-behaved congregation (though many of them
were people of fortune) made amends for the turbulent one at Galway. Such is the checker-work of life!
All the Town begs for a Sermon.
Tuesday, 7uYne I8. The town seemed to be all alive
a little after four o'clock; so, finding the congregation ready, I began a little before five. A cry soon
arose of young and old, on the right hand and on the
left, but in many it was not so much the voice of
sorrow as of joy and triumph. A fair beginning this!
But who can tell what the end will be? About nine
we rode through Doneraile, one of the pleasantest
towns in the kingdom; but a man came galloping
after us and said, "All the town begs you will stop
and give them a sermon." I turned back, and took
my stand in the main street. Men, women, and
children flocked from all sides. There was no disturbance of any kind, while I declared " the grace of
our Lord Jesus Christ." Fair blossoms again! And
who knows but some of these may bring forth fruit
unto perfection? In the evening I came to Cork,
and at seven was surprised at the unusual largeness
of the congregation. I had often been grieved at the
smallness of the congregation here, and it could be
no other while we cooped ourselves up in the house.
But now the alarm is sounded abroad, people flock
from all quarters. So plain it is that field-preaching
is the most effectual way of overturning Satan's
kingdom.
Sir Richard Cox's History of Ireland.
Wednesday, Yuly Io. I preached at Clara about
noon, and in the evening at Athlone. The two next




I765.] J    Wesley his Own Historian.        241
evenings I preached in the market-house for the sake
of the Papists, who durst not come to the room.
Saturday,  ptly I 3. I read Sir Richard Cox's
"History of Ireland."  I suppose it is accounted as
authentic as any that is extant. But surely never
was there the like in the habitable world! Such a
series of robberies, murders, and burning of houses,
towns, and countries, did I never hear or read of
before. I do not now wonder Ireland is thinly inhabited,
but that it has any inhabitants at all! Probably it
had been wholly desolate before now, had not the
English come and prevented the implacable wretches
from going on till they had swept each other from
the earth.
A Popish Miller turns Preacoher.
_7uly. In the afternoon I rode to Aghrim, and
preached about seven to a deeply serious congregation, most of whom were present again at eight in
the morning.  On Sunday, I4, about five, I began in
my usual place at Athlone, on the Connaught side of
the river. I believe the congregation (both of Protestants and Papists) was never so large before. Some
were displeased at this, and several pieces of turf
were thrown over the houses, with some stones; but
neither one nor the other could in the least interrupt
the attention of the people. Then a Popish miller
(prompted by his betters, so called) got up to preach
over against me; but some of his comrades throwing
a-little dirt in his face, he leaped down in haste to
fight them. This bred a fray, in which he was so
roughly handled that he was glad to get off with only
a bloody nose.
16




242.         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I765.
Wesley's broad Charity.
Wednesday,  duly 17. I preached in the Grove at
Edinderry. Many of the Quakers were there, (it being
the time of their general meeting,) and many of all
sorts.  I met here with the Journal of William Eldmundson, one of their preachers in the last century.
If the original equaled the picture, (which I see no
reason to doubt,) what an amiable man was this!
His opinions I leave, but what a spirit was here'!
What faith, love, gentleness, long-suffering! Could
mistake send such a man as this to hell? Not so. I
am so far from believing this that I scruple not to
say, "Let my soul be with the soul of William
Edmundson!"
The Deepest Part of the Holy Scripture.
Thursday, 7uly 18. The wind in our face tempering
the heat of the sun, we had a pleasant ride to Dublin.
In the evening I began expounding the deepest part
of the Holy Scripture, namely, the First Epistle of
St. John, by which, above all other, even inspired
writings, I advise every young preacher to form his
style. H.ere are sublimity and simplicity together,
the strongest sense and the plainest language! How
can any one, that would " speak as the oracles of God,"
use harder words than are found here?
Wesley's Picture taken.
Wednesday, july 3I. At the earnest desire of a
friend, I suffered Mr. Hunter to take my picture. I
sat only once, from about ten o'clock to half an hour
after one, and in that time he began and ended the
face, and with a most striking likeness.




I765.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       243
A new House-A new Blessing.
Friday, Augf. I6. I rode over to Chester and
preached to as many as the new house would well
contain. We had likewise a numerous congregation
on Saturday morning as well as evening. How the
grace of God concurs with his providence! A new
house not only brings a new congregation, but likewise (what we have observed again and again) a new
blessing from God. And no wonder, if every labor
of love finds even a present reward.
" The Dogs wiser than the Men."
Wednesday, Sept. 4. I rode on to North Tawton, a
village where several of our preachers had preached
occasionally. About six I went to the door of our
inn, but I had hardly ended the psalm when a clergyman came with two or three (by the courtesy of
England called) gentlemen. After I had named my
text, I said, "There may be some truths which
concern some men only, but this concerns all mankind." The minister cried out, " That is false doctrine!
that is predestination!" Then the roar began, to
second which they had brought a huntsman with his
hounds; but the dogs were wiser than the men, for
they could not bring them to make any noise at all.
One of the gentlemen supplied their place.  He
assured us he was such, or none would have suspected
it; for his language was as base, foul, and porterly
as ever was heard at Billingsgate. Dog, rascal, puppy,
and the like terms, adorned almost every sentence.
Finding there was no probability of a quiet hearing,
I left him the field, and withdrew to my lodging.




244         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I 765.
Sound Advice.
Wednesday, Sept. 18. I set out for Plymouth Dock.
In the way we called on one of our friends near
Liskeard, and found his wife, once strong in faith, in
the very depth of despair.  I could not but admire
the providence of God which sent us so seasonably
thither. We cried strongly to God in her behalf, and
left her not a little comforted. The society at the
Dock had been for some time in a miserable condition.
Disputes had run so high concerning a worthless
man, that every one's sword was set, as it were,
against his brother.  I showed them how Satan had
desired to have them, that he might sift them -as
wheat; and afterward told them  there was but one
way to take, to pass an absolute act-of oblivion; not
to mention, on any pretense whatever, any thing that
had been said or done on either side. They fully
determined so to do. If they keep that resolution,
God will return to them.
Physical Contrast between Mr. Wesley and Mr. Whitefield.
Sunday, Oct. 20. I preached a funeral sermon at
Kingswood, over the remains of Susanna Flook, who,
a few days before, rose up and said, "I am dying,"
and dropped down dead. So little security is there
in youth  or health!  Be ye- therefore likewise
ready.
-Monday, Oct. 2I. I went in the coach to Salisbury,
and on Thursday, 24, came to London.
Monday, Oct. 28. I breakfasted with Mr. Whitefield,
who seemed to be an old, old man, being fairly worn
out in his Master's service, though he has hardly




1765.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        245
seen fifty years; and yet it pleases God that I, who
am now in my sixty-third year, find no disorder, no
weakness, no decay, no difference from what I was at
five-and-twenty, only that I have fewer teeth and
more gray hairs.
"We will have peace."
Wednesday, Dec. 4. I preached about noon at
Sandwich, and in the evening at Margate. A few
people here also join in helping each other to work
out their salvation. But the minister of the parish
earnestly opposes them, and thinks he is doing God
service!
Thursday, Dec. 5. I rode back to Feversham. Here
I was quickly informed that the mob and the magistrates had agreed together to drive Methodism, so
called, out of the town.  After preaching, I told
them what we had been constrained to do by the
magistrate at Rolvenden-who, perhaps, would have
been richer by some hundred pounds had he never
meddled with the Methodists-concluding, "Since
we have both God and the law on our side, if we
can have peace by fair means, we had much rather;
we should be exceeding glad; but if not, we will
have peace."
Much Bruised by falling off his Horse.
Wednesday, Dec. I8. Riding through the borough,
all my mare's feet flew up, and she -fell with my leg
utinder her. A gentleman stepping out lifted me up,
and helped me into his shop. I was exceedingly sick,
but was presently relieved by a little hartshorn and
water. After: resting a few minutes I took a coach,




246        -Wesley his Owns Historian.   [1765-66.
but when I was cold found myself much worse; being
bruised on my right arm, my breast, my knee, leg, and
ankle, which swelled exceedingly. However, I went on
to Shoreham; where, by applying treacle twice a day,
all the soreness was removed, and I recovered some
strength, so as to be able to walk a little on plain
ground. The word of God does at length bear fruit
here also, and Mr. P. is comforted over all his trouble.
Saturday, Dec. 21. Being not yet able to ride, I
returned in a. chariot to London.
-Whitefield no Bigot.
Friday, Yan. 24, I766. I returned to London.
Tuesday, fan. 28. Our brethren met together to
consider our temporal affairs. One proposed that we
should in the first place pay off the debt of the society, which was five hundred pounds. Toward this a
hundred and seveny were subscribed immediately. At
a second. meeting this was enlarged to three hundred.and twenty. Surely God will supply the rest!
Friday, an. 3 I. Mr. Whitefield called upon me.
H.e breathes nothing but peace and love. Bigotry
cannot stand before him, but hides its head wherever
he comes.
A timely Supply and Relief.
Sunday, Feb. 2. I dined with W. Welsh, the father
of the late Society for Reformation of Manners. But
that excellent design is at a fuli stop. They have
indeed convicted the wretch who, by willful perjury,
carried the cause against them in Westminster
Hall; but they could never recover the expense of
that suit. Lord, how long shall the ungodly triumph!
Wednesday, Feb. 5. One called upon me who had




1766.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        247
been cheated out of a large fortune, and was now
perishing for want of bread. I had a desire to clothe
him and send him back to his own country, but. was
short of money. However, I appointed him to call
again in an hour.  He did so; but, before he came,
one from whom I expected nothing less put twenty
guineas into my hand; so I ordered him to be clothed
from head to foot, and sent him straight away to
Dublin.
The London Society suffers from Bell and Maxfield.
Monday, Feb. IO, and the four following days, I
wrote a catalogue of the society, now reduced from
eight-and-twenty hundred to about two-and-twenty.
Such is the fruit of George Bell's enthusiasm and
Thomas Maxfield's gratitude!
"A Cluhistian School, or none at all."
Sunday, Marhc/ 9. In  the evening I went to
Knightsbridge; and in the morning took the machine
for Bristol, where I preached (as I had appointed) on
Tuesday evening, and met the society.
Wednesday, March 12. I rode over to Kingswood;
and, having told my whole mind to the masters and
servants, spoke to the children in a far stronger
manner than ever I did before.  I will kill or cure, I
will have one or the other-a Christian school, or
none at all.
Sunday, March I6. I preached in Princes-street,
at eight, on "Awake, thou that sleepest;" and at the
square in the evening, to a listening multitude, on.
" Come, Lord Jesus!"  At Kingswood we had such
a congregation. at ten: as has not been there for




248         Wesley his Own Historian.       [I766.
several years, and I had the satiafaction to find
four of our children again rejoicing in the love of
God.
Wesley's Objections to the Liverpool Deed.
Thursday, April Jo. I looked over the wonderful
deed which was lately made here, on which I observed: I. It takes up three large skins of parchment, and so could not cost less than six guineas;
whereas our own deed, transcribed by a friend, would
not have cost six shillings.. 2. It is verbose beyond
all sense and reason, and withal so ambiguously
worded, that one passage only might find matter for
a, suit of ten or twelve years in chancery.  3. It everywhere calls the house a meeting-house, a name which
I — particularly object to. 4. It leaves no power either
to the assistant or me, so much as to place or displace a steward.  5. Neither I, nor all the Conference, have power to send the same preacher two
years together. To crown all, 6. If a preacher is not
appointed at the Conference, the Trustees and the
congregation are to choose one by most votes! And
can any one wonder I dislike this deed, which tears
the Methodist discipline up by the roots? Is it not
strange, that any who have the least regard either
for me or our discipline, should scruple to alter this
uncouth deed?
Horse and Rider struggling in the Bogs.
Tuesday, Yune 24. Before eight we reached Dumfries, and after a short bait pushed on, in hopes of
reaching Solway Frith before the sea was come in.
Designing to call at an inn -by the Frith side we inquired-the way, and were directed to leave the main'




I766.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       249
road and go straight to the house, which we saw before
us. In ten minutes Duncan Wright was embogged;
however, the horse plunged on and got through. I
was inclined to turn back; but Duncan telling me
I needed only go a little to the left, I did so, and
sunk at once to my horse's shoulders. He sprung
up twice, and twice sunk again, each time deeper
than before. At the third plunge he threw me on
one side, and we both made shift to scramble out.  I
was covered with fine, soft mud, from my feet to the
crown of my head; yet, blessed be God! not hurt at
all. But we could not cross till between seven and
eight o'clock. An honest man crossed with us, who
went two miles out of his way to guide us over the
sands to Skilburness, where we found a little, clean
house, and passed a comfortable night.
A long White Beard.
ruly. In the evening I preached near the preaching-house at Paddiham, and strongly insisted on communion with God, as the only religion that would
avail us. At the close of the sermon came Mr. M.
His long, white beard showed that his present disorder was of some continuance. In all other respects,
he was quite sensible; but he told me, with much
concern, " You can have no place in heaven without a
beard! Therefore, I beg, let yours grow immediately."
The Wesleys confer with Mr. Whitefield.
Sunday, Aug. 17. After preaching in Leeds at
seven, I rode to Bristol, and heard a sound, useful
sermon on "Come unto me, all ye that labor and
are heavy laden." At one I preached, to an immense[




250.Wesley his Own Historian.        [I 766.
multitude, on "Come, Lord Jesus!"  I then set out
for Rotherham; but the next day I turned off from
the road I had designed to take, and, going on to
Leicester that night, on Wednesday reached London.
It was at the earnest request of, whose heart
God has turned again, without any expectation of
mine, that I came hither so suddenly; and, if no other
good result from it but our firm union with Mr. Whitefield, it is an abundant recompense for my labor. My
brother and I conferred with him every day; and,
let the honorable men do what they please,we resolved,
by the grace of God, to go on, hand in hand, through
honor and dishonor.
A Heavy Load off his Shoulders.
Wednesday, Aug. 27. I rode to Bristol, and the next
day delivered the management of Kingswood House
to stewards on whom I could depend. So I have
cast a heavy load off my shoulders. Blessed be God
for able and faithful men, who will do his work without any temporal reward!
Wesley protected by Court of King's Bench.
Saturday, Aug. 30. We rode to Stallbridge, long
the seat of war by a senseless, insolent mob, encouraged by their betters, so called, to outrage their quiet
neighbors. For what? Why, they were mad; they
were Methodists. So, to bring them to their senses,
they would beat their brains out. They broke their
windows, leaving not one whole pane of glass, spoiled
their goods, and assaulted their persons with dirt,
and rotten eggs, and stones whenever they appeared;
in the' street. But no magistrate, though they applied




I766.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       -25 I
to several, would show them either mercy or justice.
At length they wrote to me. I ordered a lawyer to
write to the rioters. He did so; but they set him
at nought. We then moved the Court of King's
Bench. By various artifices, they got the trial put
off from one assizes to another for eighteen months.
But it fell so much the heavier on themselves when
they were found guilty; and, from that time, finding
there is law for Methodists, they have suffered them
to be at peace.
Twenty Thousand Hearers at Gwennap.
Sunday, Sept. I4. I preached in St. Agnes at eight.
The congregation in"Redruth, at one, was the largest I
ever had seen there, but small compared to that which
assembled at five in the natural amphitheater at
Gwennap; far the finest I know in the kingdom. It
is a round, green hollow, gently shelving down, about
fifty feet deep; but I suppose it is two hundred across
one way, and near three hundred the other. I believe
there were full twenty thousand people; and, the evening being calm, all could hear.
Wesley rides Twenty-five Miles to see a Dying Man.
Thursday, Sept. 1 8. I rode to Collumpton, preached
at six, and then went on to Tiverton.
Friday, Sept. I9, came a messenger from Jo. Magor,
dangerously ill at Sidmouth, four or five-and-twenty
miles off, to tell me he could not die in peace till he
had seen me. So the next morning, after preaching,
I set out, spent an hour with him, by which he was
exceedingly refreshed, and returned to Tiverton time
enough to rest a little before the evening preaching.




252         Wesley his; Own Historian.  [1766-67.
Wesley preaches on the Education of Children.
Sunday, Sept. 28. I preached in Princes-street at
eight, in Kingswood at two, and at five near the new
square. The last especially was an acceptable time,
particularly while I was explaining, " Neither can they
die any more; but are the children of God, being
children of the resurrection." In the following days
I preached at Pensford, Paulton, Coleford, Buckland,
Frome, Beckington, Freshford, and Bradford.
Sunday, Oct. 5. At eight I administered the sacrament at Lady H —'s chapel in Bath. At eleven I
preached there on those words in the Gospel for the
day, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." The
word was quick and powerful, and I trust many even
of the rich and great felt themselves sinners before
God. Several evenings this week I preached at Bristol on the education of children. Some answered
all by that poor, lame, miserable shift, " O, he has no
children of his own!" But many of a nobler spirit,
owned the truth, and pleaded guilty before God.
Playing with Edged Tools.
Monday, May 4, I767. We rode to Castlebar, thirty
old Irish, and about fifty-six English miles. Between
six and seven I began preaching in the Court-house;
but few of the rich were there. Many of these dare
not hear me above once; they find it is playing with
edged tools. Many of the poor were present at five in
the morning, and many more, both rich and poor, in the
evening.  And "the power of the Lord was present
to heal;" but how many rejected his " counsel against
themselves?"




1767.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       253
"He is the best Physician who performs the most cures."
Saturday, May 9. I rode to Ennis, but found the
preaching had been discontinued, and the society was
vanished away. So, having no business there, I left
it in the morning, preached at Clare about eight, and
in the evening at Limerick.  The continued rain
kept me from preaching abroad this week, and I
was scandalized at the smallness of the congregation
in the house.  I am afraid my glorying, touching
many of these societies, is at an end. Almost throughout the province of Ulster I found the work of God
increasing; and not a little in Connaught, particularly at Sligo, Castlebar, and Galway. But in Munster, a land flowing with milk and honey, how widely
is the case altered! At Ennis, the god of this world
has wholly prevailed; at Clare there is but a spark
left; and at Limerick itself, I find.only'the remembrance of the fire which was kindled two years ago.
And yet one of the two preachers who was here last
was almost universally admired!  But, alas! how
little does this avail! " He is the best physician,"
said a sensible man, "not who talks best, or who
writes best, but who performs the most cures."
Obliged to be in Genteel Company.
Monday, rune I5. I rode through a pleasant and
well-cultivated country to Aghrim. For many years
I have not seen so large a congregation here, and so
remarkably well behaved. At the prayer, both before
and after sermon, all of them kneeled upon the grass.
A few of the poor Papists only remained standing, at
a distance from the rest of the people. These would




254         Wesley his Own Historian.     [1767.
come in droves at every place, if the priests, as well
as the King, would grant liberty of conscience. At
the desire of the good old widow, Mrs. M, I went
with Mr. S-    to C. Lord and Lady Mwere there before us, to whom I was probably
"A not-expected, much-unwelcome guest."
But whatsoever it was to them, it was a heavy afternoon to me; as I had no place to retire to, and so
was obliged to be in genteel company for two' or
three hours together.  O what a dull thing is life
without religion!  I do not wonder that time hangs
heavy upon the hands of all who know not God,
unless they are perpetually drunk with noise and
hurry of some kind or another.
Power of Prayer,
Thursday, ziune 25. I was desired to look at the
monument lately erected for the Earl of Charleville.
It observes that he was the last of his family, the
great Moores of Croghan. But how little did riches
profit either him, who died in the strength of his
years, or his heir, who was literally overwhelmed by
them; being so full of care that sleep departed from
him, and he was restless by day and night, till, after
a few months, life was a burden, and an untimely
death closed the scene! In the evening I preached
at Mount Mellick, near the market-house. The congregation was exceeding large, and God made his
word "quick and powerful, and sharper than a twoedged sword."
Friday, i7une 26. Finding some of the most earnest
persons in tqhe society were deeply prejudiced against




1767.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       25 5
each other, I desired them to come face to face, and
labored much to remove their prejudice. I used both
argument and persuasion; but it was all in vain.
Perceiving that reasoning profited nothing, we betook
ourselves to prayer. On a sudden the mighty power
of God broke in upon them. The angry ones on
both sides burst into tears, and fell on each other's
necks. All anger and prejudice vanished away, and
they were as cordially united as ever.
A solemn Watch-night.
Wednesday, Yuly 22. On Wednesday and Thursday
we had our little Conference at Dublin. Friday we
observed as a day of fasting and prayer, and concluded it with the most solemn watch-night that I
ever remember in this kingdom.  I was much tired
between seven and eight o'clock, but less and less so
as the service went on; and at the conclusion, a little
after twelve, I was fresher than at six in the morning.
Effects of Denunciatory Preaching at Edinburgh.
Sunday, Aug. 2. I was sorry to find both the
society and the congregations smaller than when I
was here last.  I impute this chiefly to the manner
of preaching which has been generally used. The
people have been told, frequently and strongly, of
their coldness, deadness, heaviness, and littleness of
faith, but very rarely of any thing that would move
thankfulness. Hereby many were driven away, and
those that remained were kept cold and dead. I
encouraged them strongly at eight in the morning;
and about noon preached upon the Castle Hill
on "There is joy in heaven over one sinner that




256         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I767:
repenteth." The sun shone exceeding hot upon my
head; but all was well, for God was in the midst of
us. In the evening I preached on Luke xx, 34, etc.,
and many were comforted; especially while I was
enlarging on those deep words, " Neither can they
die any more, but are equal to the angels, and are
the children of God, being the children of the resurrection."
Wesley travels One Hundred and Ten Miles in a Day!
Wednesday, Aug. 12. I took coach. The next day we
reached Grantham, and London about seven op Friday
evening, having run that day a hundred and ten.
miles. On the road I read over Seller's " History
of Palmyra," and Norden's " Travels in Egypt and
Abyssinia," two as dry and unsatisfying books as I
ever read in my life.
Whitefield at Conference,
Tuesday, Aug. I8. I met in Conference with our
assistants and a select number of preachers. To
these were added, on Thursday and Friday, Mr. Whitefield, Howell Harris, and many stewards and local
preachers.  Love and harmony reigned from  the
beginning to the end; but we have all need of more
love and holiness; and, in order thereto, of crying
continually, " Lord, increase our faith." Having finished my work in London for the present, on Monday, 24, I rode to Wycomb, and preached in the evening to a numerous and deeply attentive congregation.
Refreshed as a Giant with new Wine.
Monday, Aug. 3I. I rode to Carmarthen, and a
little before six went down to the Green.  The con



1767.]    TWesley his Own Historian.       257
gregation was near as large as that at Brecknock, but
nothing so gay; being almost all poor or middling
people. To these, therefore, I directly preached the
Gospel. They heard it with greediness; and though I
was faint and weary when I began, I was soon as a
giant refreshed with wine.
Prejudice and Bigotry give way.
Monday, Sept. 7. I rode to Carmarthen, and
preached on the Green on "Is there a balm in
Gilead?"  In the afternoon, finding none that could
direct us to Oxwych, we were obliged to ride round
by Swansea. The next morning we came to Oxwych,
and found George Story there, who had come to
Swansea the day before in his way to Cork. Hearing I was near, he came over just in season to preach
to the congregation who waited for me. At noon I
preached to, I suppose, all the inhabitants of the
town, and then rode to Neath.  I had designed to
preach abroad, but the rain would not permit. The
preaching-house was much crowded, and the power
of God was in the midst of the congregation. Prejudice sunk down before it, and the innumerable lies
which most of them had heard of me vanished into
air. The same power rested upon them early in the
morning. The bigots on all sides were ashamed,
and felt that, in Christ Jesus, nothing avails but the
"faith that worketh by love."
Labor Lost.
Friday, Sept. 25. I was desired to preach at Freshford; but the people durst not come to the house
because of the small-pox, of which Joseph Allen,
17




258         Wesley his Own Historian.   [I767-68.
"an Israelite indeed," had died the day before.  So
they placed a table near the church-yard. But I had
no sooner begun to speak than the bells began to
ring, by the procurement of a neighboring gentleman. However, it:was: labor lost; for my voice prevailed, and the people heard me distinctly; nay, a
person extremely deaf, who had not been able to hear
a sermon for several years, told his neighbors, with
great joy, that he heard and understood all, from the
beginning to the end.
The Way to Overturn Satan's Kingdom.
Wednesday, Sept. 30. I preached to a large and very
serious congregation on Redcliff Hill. This is the
way to overturn Satan's kingdom. In field-preaching,
more than any other means, God is found of them
that sought him  not. By this, death, heaven, and
hell come to the ears, if not the hearts, of them that
"care for none of these things."
Friday, Oct. 2, and some days in the week, I visited
the other societies round Bristol.
Sunday, Oct. i i. I preached at eight in Princesstreet, and a little before five near the new square,
where, notwithstanding the keenness of the wind, the
congregation was exceeding large. I permitted all
of Mr. Whitefield's society that pleased to be present
at the love-feast that followed.  I hope we shall " not
know war any more," unless with the world, the
flesh, and the devil.
A venerable Monument of Antiquity,
Saturday, March I 9,I 768. We rode to Birmingham.
The tumults which subsisted here so many years are
now wholly suppressed by a resolute magistrate.




I768.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         259
After preaching, I was pleased to see a venerable monument of antiquity, George Bridgins, in the one hundred and seventh year of his age. He can still walk
to the preaching, and retains his senses and understanding tolerably well. But what a dream will even
a life of a hundred years appear to him the moment
he awakes in eternity!'INo children of his own,"
Tuesday, March 29. I preached in Stockport at
noon, and Manchester in the evening.
Wednesday, March 30. I rode to a little town called
New Mills, in the High Peak of Derbyshire. I
preached at noon in their large new chapel, which (in
consideration that preaching-houses have need of air).
has a casement in every window three inches square!
That is the custom of the country! In the evening
and the following morning I brought strange things
to the ears of many in Manchester concerning the
government of their families and the education of
their children.  But some still made that very silly
answer, " 0, he has no children of his own! " Neither
had St. Paul, nor (that we know) any of the Apostles.
What then? Were they therefore unable to instruct
parents? Not so. They were able to instruct every
one that has a soul to be saved.
Bishop Butler's "Analogy."
Friday, May 20. I went on in reading that fine
book, Bishop Butler's "Analogy."   But I doubt
it is too hard for most of those for whom it is
chiefly intended.  Free-thinkers, so called, are seldom
close-thinkers.  They will not be at the pains of read



260         Wesley his Own Historian.     [1 768.
ing such a book as this.  One that would profit
them  must dilute his sense, or they will neither
swallow nor digest it.
Wesley disgusted with the Singing
Tuesday, Aug. 9. I took a full view of the castle,
situate on the top of a steep hill, and commanding a
various and extensive prospect both by sea and land.
The building itself is far the loftiest which I have
seen in Wales. What a taste had they who removed
from hence to bury themselves in a hole at Margam!
When we came to Neath, I was a little surprised to
hear I was to preach in the church, of which the
churchwardens had the disposal, the minister being
just dead. I began reading prayers at six, but was
greatly disgusted at the manner of singing. I. Twelve
or fourteen persons kept it to themselves, and quite
shut out the congregation.  2. These repeated the
same words, contrary to all sense and reason, six or
eight or ten times over. 3. According to the shocking custom of modern music, different persons sung
different words at one and the same moment, an
intolerable insult on common sense, and  utterly
incompatible with any devotion.
lie hastens to see his Siok Wife.
Sunday, Aug. I4. Hearing my wife was dangerously ill, I took chaise immediately, and reached the
Foundery before one in the morning.  Finding the
fever was turned and the danger over, about two I set
out again, and in the afternoon came (not at all tired)
to Bristol. Our Conference began on Tuesday, and
ended on Friday, I9. O what can we do for more




1768.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        261
laborers?  We can only cry to "the Lord of the
harvest."
Wesley Preaches to an Aged Saint,
Friday, Sept. 2. I preached at noon to an earnest
company at Zennor, and in the evening to a far larger
at St. Just. Here being informed that one of our
sisters in the next parish, Morva, who entertained
the preachers formerly, was now decrepit, and had
not heard a sermon for many years, I went on Saturday, 3, at noon, to Alice Daniel's, and preached near
the house on "They who shall be accounted worthy
to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the
dead, are equal unto the angels, and are the children
of God, being the children of the resurrection." I
have always thought there is something venerable in
persons worn out with age, especially when they
retain their understanding, and walk in the ways of
God.
At his favorite work-Field-preaching.
Wednesday, Sept. 7. After the early preaching the
select society met; such a company of lively believers, full of faith and love, as I never found in this
country before.  This, and the three following days,
I preached at as many places as I could, though I
was at first in doubt whether I could preach eight
days together, mostly in the open air, three or four
times a day. But my strength was as my work; I
hardly felt any weariness first or last.
Sunday, Sept. I I. About nine I preached at St.
Agnes, and again between one and two. At five I
took my old stand at Gwennap, in the natural amphitheater.  I suppose no human voice could have com



262         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1768.
manded such an audience on plain ground; but the
ground rising all round, gave me such an advantage,
that I believe all could hear distinctly.
The Singing of the Methodists like that of the Ancients.
Saturday, Oct. 22. I was much surprised on reading an "Essay on Music," wrote by one who is a
thorough master of the subject, to find that the music
of the ancients was as simple as that of the Methodists; that their music wholly consisted of melody,
or the arrangement of single notes; that what is
now called harmony, singing in parts, the whole of
counterpoint and fugues, is quite novel, being never
known in the world till the Popedom of Leo the
Tenth.  He further observes, that as the singing
different words by different persons at the very same
time necessarily prevents attention to the sense, so it
frequently destroys melody for the sake of harmony;
meantime it destroys the very end of music, which is
to affect the passions.
To reprove well requires more than Human Wisdom.
Thursday, Dec. I. The storm  was ready to bear
away both man and beast. But it abated about noon;
so that, after preaching at Margate, I had a pleasant
ride to Canterbury.  I made an odd observation
here, which I recommend to all our preachers. The
people of Canterbury have been so often reproved (and
frequently without a cause) for being dead and cold
that it has utterly discouraged them, and made them
cold as stones. How delicate a thing is it to reprove!
To do it well requires more than human wisdom.
Friday, Dec. 2. Those who are called Mr. White



I768-69.]   Wesley his Own Historian.       263
field's society, at Chatham, offered me the use of
their preaching-house, which I suppose is nearly
four times as large as that at the barracks. In the
morning I walked on, ordering my servant to overtake me with my carriage, and he did so, but not till
I had walked seven or eight miles.
A Profitable Hour with Mr. Whitefield.
lMlonday, ytan. 9, 1769. I spent a comfortable and
profitable hour with Mr. Whitefield in calling to mind
the former times, and the manner wherein God prepared us for a work which it had not then entered
into our hearts to conceive.
Tuesday, asan. I7. I rode to Chesham. Our own
room being neither so large nor so convenient, Mr.
Spooner, the Dissenting minister, gave me the use
of his meeting. There was a great many hearers;
they were very attentive, and I doubt that was all.
Wesley's Grandfather Annesley.
Monday, Feb. 6. I spent an hour with a venerable
woman near ninety years of age, who retains her
health, her senses, her understanding, and even her
memory, to a good degree.  In the last century she
belonged to my Grandfather Annesley's congregation,
at whose house her father and she used to dine every
Thursday, and whom she remembers to have frequently seen in his study at the top of the house, with
his window open, and without any fire winter or summer.  He lived seventy-seven years, and would
probably have lived longer, had he not began waterdrinking at seventy.




264         Wesley his Ownz Historian.     [I769.
Threesoora Miles to Yarmouth,
Monday, Feb. 13. I rode to Colchester, and had the
satisfaction of seeing such a congregation, both this
evening and the following, as I never saw in that
house before.
[Wednesday, Feb. 15. I rode to Bury, and found not
only an attentive audience, but a little society athirst
for God.
Thursday, Feb. I6. Supposing we had but five-andforty miles to Yarmouth, I did not set out till near
seven, but it proved threescore; likewise it rained
all day, and part of the road was very bad. However,
God strengthened both man and beast, so we reached
it before six in the evening. As we were both
throughly wet, I was a little afraid for my companion,
who was much older than me, though he had not
lived so many years. But neither of us was any worse.
The congregation was the largest I ever saw at Yarmouth, and I spoke far more plainly (if not roughly)
than ever I did before.  But I doubt if, after all the
stumbling-blocks laid in their way, any thing will
sink into their hearts.
Wesley's Motive in Writing Books.
Friday, Feb. 17. I abridged Dr. Watts's pretty
"Treatise on the Passions." His hundred and seventyseven pages will make a useful tract of four-andtwenty. Why do persons who treat the same subjects with me write so much larger books? Of many
reasons is not this the chief: we do not write with
the same view? Their principal end is to get money;
my only one to do good.




1769.]      WVesley his Own Historian.      265
Whitefield Vigorous in Soul, but Failing in Body.
Saturday, Feb. 25. I went on to London.
Monday, Feb. 27, 1 had one more agreeable conversation with my old friend and fellow-laborer,
George Whitefield. His soul appeared to be vigorous
still, but his body was sinking apace; and unless
God interposes with his mighty hand he must soon
finish his labors.
Wesley at work Three Days as a Peace-maker.
Thursday, March 2 I. I went to Parkgate, and about
eleven embarked on board the King George. We
had mild weather and smooth water all day. The
next day the wind blew fresh. Yet about five we
were in Dublin Bay, where we procured a fishing
boat, which took us to Dunleary. Here we took a
chaise, and got to Dublin about eight o'clock. On
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday I labored to allay
the ferment which still remained in the society. I
heard the preachers face to face once and again, and
endeavored to remove their little misunderstandings.
And they did come a little nearer to each other, but
still a jealousy was left, without an entire removal of
which there can be no cordial agreement.
March/ 26. (Being Easter-Day,) many felt the power
of the spirit which raised Jesus from the dead. On
M1/onday and Tuesday I visited the classes, and the
result of my closest observation was, I. That out of
five hundred members whom I left here, only four
hundred and fifty remained; 2. That near half of the
believers had suffered loss, and many quite given up
their faith; 3. That the rest were more established




266        Wesley his Own Historian.     [1769.
than ever, and some swiftly growing in grace. So
that, considering the heavy storm they had gone
through, if there was cause of humiliation on the one
hand, there was, on the other, more abundant cause
of thankfulness to Him who had saved so many when
all the waves went over them.
Wesley Preaches in a Stable.
Monday, April 17. In the evening, and twice on
Tuesday, I preached to a genteel yet serious audience
in Mr. M'Gough's avenue, at Armagh. But God only
can reach the heart.
Wednesday, April I9. As it rained, I choose rather
to preach in M'Gough's yard. The rain increasing,
we retired into one of his buildings. This was the
first time that I preached in a stable, and I believe
more good was done by this than all the other
sermons I have preached at Armagh.
He Officiates in Place of the Archdeacon,
April. We took horse about ten, being desired to
call at Kinnard, (ten or eleven miles out of the way,)
where a little society had been lately formed who
were much alive to God. At the town end I was
met by a messenger from Archdeacon C    e, who
desired I would take a bed with him; and soon after
by another, who told me the Archdeacon desired I'
would alight at his door. I did so, and fbund an old
friend whom I had not seen for four or five-and-thirty
years. He received me with the most cordial affection, and after a time said, " We have been building
a new church, which my neighbors expected nre to
open; but, if you please to do it, it will be as well."




1769.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        267
Hearing the bell, the people flocked together from all
parts of the town, and "received the word with all
readiness of mind."  I saw the hand of God was in
this for the strengthening of this loving people, several
of whom believe that the blood of Christ has
"cleansed" them "from all sin."
A Brilliant (ongregation at Londonderry.
April 20. We took the new road to Dungiven. But
it was hard work.
"Nigh founder'd, on we fared,
Treading the crude consistence."
We were near five hours going fourteen miles, partly
on horseback, partly on foot. We had, as usual, a
full house at Londonderry in the evening, and again
at eight on Sunday morning. In the afternoon we
had a brilliant congregation. But such a sight gives
me no great pleasure, as I have very little hope of
doing them good, only "with God all things are
possible."  Both this evening and the next I spoke
exceeding plain to the members of the society. In
no other place in Ireland has more pains been taken
by the most able of our preachers. And to how little
purpose! Bands they have none; four-and-forty
persons in the society! The greater part of these
heartless and cold. The audience in general dead as
stones. However, we are to deliver our message,
and let our Lord do as seemeth him good.
Tuesday, April 25. I fixed again the meeting of the
singers and of the children, both which had been discontinued. Indeed, a general remissness had prevailed
since the morning preaching was given up. No
wonder wherever this is given up the glory is departed
from us.




268        Wesley his Own Historian.     [1769.
Papist Hearers,
Thursday, May 4. I found near Swadlinbar as
artless, as earnest, and as loving a people as even at
Tonny Lommon. About six I preached at the town's
end, the very Papists appearing as attentive as the
Protestants; and I doubt not thousands of these
would soon be zealous Christians, were it not for
their wretched priests, who will not enter into the
kingdom of God themselves, and diligently hinder
those that would.
An Eminent Beauty.
Thursday, May 25. I rode to Bandon. Since I was
here before several have gone home rejoicing, but
others are come in their place; so that the society
contains just as many members as when I left; and
most of the believers seem much alive, particularly
the young men, maidens, and children. In the evening
we were obliged to be in the house; but the next
Friday, 26, I stood in the main street and cried to a
numerous congregation, "Fear God and keep his
commandments, for this is the whole duty of man."
Afterward I visited one that a year or two ago was in
high life, an eminent beauty, adored by her husband,
admired and caressed by some of the first men in the
nation. She was now without husband, without
friend, without fortune, confined to her bed, in constant pain and in black despair, believing herself
forsaken of God, and possessed by a legion of devils -!
Yet I found great liberty in praying for her, and a
strong hope that she will die in peace.




I769.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        269
A Money-loving People.
Tuesday, i'unze 20. I went on to Aghrim, and spoke as
plain as I possibly could to a money-loving people
on "God said unto him, Thou fool!" But I am afraid
many of them are sermon proof. Yet God has all
power, and sometimes he sends, when and where it
pleases him,
"O'erwhelming showers of saving grace."
But I have never observed these to last long; and in
all the intervals of them he acts by his standing rule,
"unto him that hath," and uses what he hath, "shall
be given, and he shall have more abundantly; but
from him that hath not," uses it not, " shall be taken
away even that he hath."
What Wesley means by Christian Perfection.
gune. By Christian perfection I mean, I. Loving
God with all our heart. Do you object to this? I
mean, 2. A heart and life all devoted to God. Do you
desire less? I mean, 3. Regaining the whole image
of God. What objection to this? I mean, 4. Having
all the mind that was in Christ. Is this going too
far? I mean, 5. Walking uniformly as Christ walked.
And this surely no Christian will object to. If any
one means any thing more, or any thing else by perfection, I have no concern with it.
Preachers and Money sent to America,
Sunday, Y~uy 30. Mr. Crook being out of order,
I read prayers and preached at Hunslet church both
morning and afternoon. At five I preached at Leeds,




270         Wesley his Own Historian.     [ I769.
and on Monday, 3I, prepared all things for the ensuing Conference.
Tuesday, Aug. I. It began, and a more loving one
we never had. On Thursday I mentioned the case
of our brethren at New York who had built the first
Methodist preaching-house in America, and were in
great want of money, but much more of preachers.
Two of our preachers, Richard Boardman and Joseph
Pillmoor, willingly offered themselves for the service;
by whom we determined to send them fifty pounds,
as a token of our brotherly love.
In answer to a Mother's Prayers.
Wednesday, Aug. I6. I examined the members of the
society, (Haverford west,) now the most lively one in
Wales. Many of them are rejoicing in the love of God,
and many groaning for full redemption. To-day I gave
a second reading to that lively book, Mr. Newton's
account of his own experience. There is something
very extraordinary therein, but one may account for
it without a jot of predestination. I doubt not but
his, as well as Colonel Gardner's, conversion was an
answer to a mother's prayers.
Celebrates Lady Huntingdon's Birthday.
Wednesday, Aug. 23. I went on to Trevecka. Here
we found a concourse of people from all parts, come
to celebrate the Countess of Huntingdon's birthday,
and the anniversary of her school, which was opened
on the twenty-fourth of August, last year. I preached
in the evening to as many as her chapel could well
contain, which is extremely neat, or rather elegant, as
is the dining-room, the school, and all the house.




1769.]      Wesley his Owan Historian.       271
About nine Howel Harris desired me to give a short
exhortation to his family. I did so, and then went
back to my lady's, and laid me down in peace.
Thursday, Aulg. 24. I administered the Lord's Supper to the family. At ten the public service began.
Mr. Fletcher preached an exceeding lively sermon in
the court, the chapel being far too small. After him
Mr. William Williams preached in Welsh till between
one and two o'clock. At two we dined. Meantime
a large number of people had baskets of bread and
meat carried to them in the court. At three I took my
turn there, then Mr. Fletcher, and about five the congregation was dismissed. Between seven and eight
the love-feast began, at which I believe many were
comforted. In the evening several of us retired into
the neighboring wood, which is exceeding pleasantly
laid out in walks, one of which leads to a little mount
raised in the midst of a meadow, that commands a
delightful prospect. This is Howel Harris's work,
who has likewise greatly enlarged and beautified his
house, so that with the gardens, orchards, walks, and
pieces of water that surround it, it is a kind of little
paradise.
Wesley's Criticism on Homer's Odyssey,
Sept. Last week I read over, as I rode, great part
of Homer's Odyssey. I always imagined it was like
Milton's " Paradise Regained,"
The last faint effort of an expiring Muse.
But how was I mistaken! How far has Homer's
latter poem the pre-eminence over the former! It is
not, indeed, without its blemishes; among which,
perhaps, one might reckon his making Ulysses swim




272         Wesley his Own Historian.       [I769.
nine days and nine nights without sustenance; the
incredible manner of his escape from Polyphemus,
(unless the goat was as strong as an ox,) and the
introducing Minerva at every turn without any dignus
vindice nodus. [Difficulty worthy of such intervention.]
But his numerous beauties make large amends for
these.  Was ever man so happy in his descriptions,
so exact and consistent in his characters, and so
natural in telling a story?  He likewise continually
inserts the finest strokes of morality, (which I cannot
find in Virgil;) on all occasions recommending the
fear of God, with justice, mercy, and truth. In this
only he is inconsistent with himself; he makes his
hero say,
Wisdom never lies:
And,
Him, on whate'er pretense, that lies can tell,
My soul abhors him as the gates of hell.
Meantime he himself, on the slightest pretense, tells
deliberate lies over and over; nay, and is highly commended for so doing, even by the goddess of wisdom!
Rotten Eggs broken in the Right Place.
Tuesday, Sept. 19. Between twelve and one I
preached at Freshford, and on White Hills, near
Bradford, in the evening. By this means many had
an opportunity of hearing who would not have come
to the room. I had designed to preach there again
next evening, but a gentleman in the town desired
me to preach at his door. The beasts of the people
were tolerably quiet till I had nearly finished my
sermon. They then lifted up their voice, especially
one called a gentleman, who had filled his pocket




1769.]      Wesley his Own Historiadn.      273
with rotten eggs; but a young man coming unawares,
clapped his hands on each side and mashed them all
at once. In an instant he was perfumed all over,
though it was not so sweet as balsam.
A Thousand at Love-feast.
Thursday, Oct. 5. I had the satisfaction to find that
two of our brethren, with whom I had taken much
pains, had at length put an end to their chancery suit,
and closed their debate by a reference.
Sunday, Oct. 8. I permitted all of Mr. Whitefield's
society that desired it to be present at our love-feast.
I suppose there were a thousand of us in all, and we
were not sent empty away.
Guthrie's " History of Scotland."
Monday, Nov. 6, and the following days, I visited
as many of the people, sick and well, as I possibly
could; and on Friday, 9, leaving them more united
than they had been for many years, I took coach
again, and the next afternoon came to London. In
the coach, going and coming, I read several volumes
of Mr. Guthrie's ingenious "History of Scotland;" I
suppose as impartial a one as any to be found, and as
much to be depended upon. I never read any writer
before who gave me so much light into the real
character of that odd mixture, King James the First;
nor into that of Mary Queen of Scots, so totally misrepresented by Buchanan, Queen Elizabeth's pensioner, and her other hireling writers; and not much
less by Dr. Robertson. Them he effectually exposes,
showing how grossly, they contradict matter of fact
and one another. He likewise points out the many
18




274         Wesley his Own Historian.  [I769-,0.
and great mistakes of Dr. Robertson, such as seem
to imply either great inattention or great partiality.
Upon the whole, that much-injured queen appears
to have been far the greatest woman of that age,
exquisitely beautiful in her person, of a fine address,
of a deep, unaffected piety, and of a stronger understanding even in youth than Queen Elizabeth had at
threescore. And probably the despair wherein Queen
Elizabeth died was owing to her death, rather than
that of Lord Essex.
Letters from America.
Monday, Dec. 25, (being Christmas-Day,) we had
such a congregation at four as I have not seen fQr
many years. And from morning to evening we had
abundant proof that God is visiting and redeeming
his people.
Tuesday, Dec. 26. I read the letters from  our
preachers in America, informing us that God had
begun a glorious work there; that both in New York
and Philadelphia multitudes flock to hear, and behave
with the deepest seriousness; and that the society in
each place already contains above a hundred members.
Friday, Dec. 29, we observed as a day of fasting
and prayer, partly on account of the confused state
of public affairs, partly as preparatory to the solemn
engagement which we were about to renew.
Dr. Burnet's Theory of the Earth.
Monday, ian. I, I770. About eighteen hundred of
us met together; it was a most solemn season. As
we did openly " avouch the Lord to be our God, so
did he avouch us to be his people."




I770.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        275
Wednesday, ian. I 7. In a little journey which I took
into Bedfordshire, I finished Dr. Burnet's "Theory
of the Earth." He is doubtless one of the first-rate
writers, both as to sense and style; his language is
remarkably clear, unaffected, nervous, and elegant.
And as to his theory, none can deny that it is ingenious, and consistent with itself. And it is highly
probable, I. That the earth arose out of the chaos in
some such manner as he describes; 2. That the
antediluvian earth was without high or abrupt mountains, and without sea, being one uniform crust, inclosing the great abyss; 3. That the flood was caused
by the breaking of this crust, and its sinking into the
abyss of waters; and, 4. That the present state of the
earth, both internal and external, shows it to be the
ruins of the former earth. This is the substance of
his two former books, and thus far I can go with him.
I have no objection to the substance of his third book
upon the General Conflagration, but think it one of
the noblest tracts which is extant in our language.
And I do not much object to the fourth, concerning
the new heavens and the new earth. The substance
of it is highly probable.
Rousseau and Voltaire,
Saturday, Feb. 3, and at my leisure moments on
several of the following days, I read with much expectation a celebrated book, Rousseau upon Education.
But how was I disappointed! Sure a more consummate coxcomb never saw the sun! How amazingly
full of himself! Whatever he speaks he pronounces
as an oracle. But many of his oracles are as palpably
false as that "young children never love old people."




276        HWesley his Own Historian.     [1770.
No! Do they never love grandfathers and grandmothers? Frequently more than they do their own
parents. Indeed they love all that love them, and
that with more warmth and sincerity than when they
come to riper years.
But I object to his temper more than to his judgment; he is a mere misanthrope; a cynic all over.
So indeed is his brother-infidel, Voltaire, and well-nigh
as great a coxcomb. But he hides both his doggedness and vanity a little better; whereas here it stares
us in the face continually. As to his book, it is
whimsical to the last degree; grounded neither upon
reason nor experience. To cite particular passages
would be endless; but any one may observe concerning the whole, the advices which are good are trite
and common, only disguised under new expressions.
And those which are new, which are really his own,
are lighter than vanity itself. Such discoveries I
always expect from those who are too wise to believe
their Bibles.
Baron Swedenborg.
Wednesday, Feb. 28. I sat down to read and seriously
consider some of the writings of Baron Swedenborg.
I began with huge prejudice in his favor, knowing
him to be a pious man, one of a strong understanding,
of much learning, and one who thoroughly believed
himself. But I could not hold out long. Any one
of his visions puts his real character out of doubt.
He is one of the most ingenious, lively, entertaining
madmen that ever set pen to paper. But his waking
dreams are so wild, so far remote both from Scripture
and common sense, that one might as easily swallow the
stories of "Tom Thumb," or "Jack the Giant Killer."




x770o ]    Wesley his Own Historian.        277
Wesley preaches in a Workshop.
Monday, March 5. I came to Newbury, where I
had been much importuned to preach. But where?
The Dissenters would not permit me to preach in
their meeting-house.  Some were then desirous to
hire the old play-house; but the good Mayor would
not suffer it to be so profaned, so I made use of a
workshop-a large commodious place. But it would
by no means contain the congregation.  All that
could hear behaved well, and I was in hopes God
would have a people in this place also.
Riding with a slack rein..March. In the following days I went on slowly,
through Staffordshire and Chesire to Manchester. In
this journey, as well as in many others, I observed a
mistake that almost universally prevails, and I desire
all travelers to take good notice of it, which may
save them both from trouble and danger. Near
thirty years ago I was thinking, " How is it that no
horse ever stumbles while I am reading?" (History,
poetry, and philosophy I commonly read on horseback, having other employment at other times.) No
account can possibly be given but this: Because
then I throw the reins on his neck. I then set myself to observe; and I aver, that in riding above a
hundred thousand miles, I scarce ever remember any
horse (except two, that would fall head over heels
any way) to fall, or make a considerable stumble,
while I rode with a slack rein. To fancy, therefore,
that a tig-ht rein prevents stumbling is a capital blunder. - I have. repeated the trial more frequently than




278        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I770.
most men in the kingdom  can do. A slack rein
will prevent stumbling if any thing will. But in
some horses nothing can.
Snow-Drifts fail to arrest Wesley's Progress.
Wednesday, April 25. Taking horse at five, we rode
to Dunkeld, the first considerable town in the Highlands. We were agreeably surprised; a pleasanter
situation cannot be easily imagined. Afterward we
went some miles on a smooth, delightful road, hanging over the river Tay, and then went on, winding
through the mountains, to the Castle of Blair. The
mountains for the next twenty miles were much
higher, and covered with snow. In the evening we
came to Dalwhinny, the dearest inn I have met with
in North Britain.  In the morning we were informed
so much snow had fallen in the night that we could
get no further. And, indeed, three young women,
attempting to- cross the mountain to Blair, were
swallowed up in the snow. However, we resolved,
with God's help, to go as far as we could.  But
about noon we were at a full stop; the snow, driving
together on the top of the mountain, had quite blocked
up the road. We dismounted, and, striking out of
the road warily, sometimes to the left, sometimes to
the right, with many stumbles, but no hurt, we got
on to Dalmagarry, and before sunset to Inverness.
Benjamin and William Chappel, who had been here
three months, were waiting for a vessel to return to
London. They had met a few people every night to
sing and pray together; and their behavior, suitable
to their profession, had removed much prejudice.




I770.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        279
Highlands of Scotland.
Monday, May I4. After ten years' inquiry, I have
learned what are the Highlands of Scotland.  Some
told me, " The Highlands begin when you cross the
Tay;" others, "When you cross the North Esk;"
and others, "When you cross the river Spey;" but
all of them missed the mark. For the truth of the
matter is, the Highlands are bounded by no river at
all, but by cairns, or heaps of stones laid in a row,
southwest and northeast from  sea to sea. These
formerly divided the kingdom of the Picts from that
of the Caledonians, which included all the country
north of the cairns, several whereof are still remaining. It takes in Argyleshire, most of Perthshire, Murrayshire, with all the northwest counties.
This is called the Highlands, because a considerable
part of it (though not the whole) is mountainous.
But it is not more mountainous than North Wales,
nor than many parts of England and Ireland; nor do
I believe it has any mountain higher than Snowdon
Hill, or the Skiddaw in Cumberland. Talking Erse,
therefore, is not the thing that distinguishes these
from the Lowlands.  Neither is this or that river;
both the Tay, the Esk, and the Spey running through
the Highlands, not south of them.
A Busy Day at Whitby.
Sunday, yuune 17. I met the Select Society, consisting of sixty-five members. I believe all of these
were saved from sin; most of them are still in glorious liberty.  Many of them  spake with admirable
simplicity, and their words were like fire. Immediately the flame kindled, and spread from  heart to




280         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I770.
heart. At eight I preached; at nine met the children, most of whom had known the love of God, and
several of them were able still to rejoice in God their
Saviour.  Almost as soon as I began to speak God
spoke to their hearts, and they were ill able to contain themselves. I observed one little maid in particular, who heaved and strove for some time, till at
length she was constrained to yield, and to break out
into strong cries and tears.
We had a poor sermon at church. However, I
went again in the afternoon, remembering the words
of Mr. Philip Henry, " If the preacher does not know
his duty, I bless God that I know mine." Between
one and two I met the bands, being near two thirds
of the society. Their openness was quite surprising,
as well as the spirit with which they spoke. One
plain woman cried, and spoke, and cried again, so
that they were in tears on every side. I suppose
if I could have stayed so long, some or other would
have spoke till night.
At five I preached in the market-place again to a
far larger congregation than before. Our love-feast
took up the next two hours, at which many were
filled with solemn joy. Afterward I met a few of
the children again, all of whom had tasted that the
Lord is gracious.
Wesley in the Sixty-eighth Year of his Age!
rune. I. can hardly believe that I'am. this day
entered into the sixty-eighth year of my age. How
marvelous are the ways of God! How has he kept
me even from a child! From  ten to thirteen or
fourteen I had little but bread to eat, and not great




i77o.]     IWesley'his Own Historian.       28 
plenty of that. I believe this was so far from hurting me, that it laid the foundation of lasting health.
When I grew up, in consequence of reading Dr.
Cheyne I chose to eat sparingly, and drink water.
This was another great means of continuing my
health till I was about seven-and-twenty.  I then
began spitting of blood, which continued several
years. A warm climate cured this. I was afterward
brought to the brink of death- by a fever; but it
left me healthier than before. Eleven years after I
was in the third stage of a consumption.  In three
months it pleased God to remove this also. Since
that time I have known neither pain nor sickness,
and am now healthier than I was forty years ago.
This hath God wrought!
A Refreshing Scene.
Thursday, Yuly 5. I preached at six at Daw Green,
near Dewsbury. All things contributed to make it
a refreshing season: the gently-declining sun, the
stillness of the evening, the beauty of the meadows
and fields, through which
The smooth clear " river drew its sinuous train,"
the opposite hills and woods, and the earnestness of
the people, covering the top of the hill on which we
stood, and, above all, the Day-spring from on high, the
consolation of the Holy One!
Wesley adapts his Subjects to his Hearers.
Sunday, 7uty I5. I preached at eight, and again
at two, and then hastened away to Barrow.  The
people here much resembled those at Horncastle.




282        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I 770.
So I would not take them out of their depth, but
explained and enforced these solemnwords, "It is
appointed unto men once to die."
Monday, Yuly I6. At nine I preached in Awkborough to a people of quite another kind. So I spoke
to them directly of " Christ crucified," and the salvation which is through him. About noon I preached
to a people of the same spirit at Amcoats. In the
evening, the house at Swinfleet not being able to
contain a third of the congregation, I preached on a
smooth, green place, sheltered from the wind,
on Heb. vii, 25. Many rejoiced to hear of being
"saved to the uttermost," the very thing which
their souls longed after."
Long Sermons.
Friday, Luly 20, and Saturday, I spent at Epworth.
Sunday, Yuly 22. About eight I preached at Misterton; at one about half a mile from Haxey Church,
and at five on Epworth Cross, to the largest congregation in Lincolnshire, on " I am not ashamed of the
Gospel of Christ."
Monday,  uily 23. I preached at Doncaster and
Rotherham; on Tuesday and ~Wednesday at Sheffield.
On Wednesday evening my heart was so enlarged
that I knew not how to leave off. Do some say, "I
preach longer than usual when I am barren?"  It is
quite the contrary with me.  I never exceed, but
when I am full of matter; and still I consider it may
not be with my audience as with me. So that it is
strange if I exceed my time above a quarter of an
hour.




1770.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       283
Lord Littleton's "Dialogues of the Dead."
Thursday, Aug. 30. I rode to Falmouth, and
preached at two in the afternoon, near the church, to a
greater number of people than I ever saw there before, except the mob, five-and-twenty years ago.  I
preached at Penryn in the evening; Friday noon in
Crowan; in the evening at Treworgey, near Redruth.
Here I met with an ingenious book, the late Lord
Littleton's " Dialogues of the Dead." A great part of
it I could heartily subscribe to, though not to every
word. I believe Madame Guion was in several mistakes, speculative and practical too; yet I would no
more dare to call her, than her friend, Archbishop
F6n6lon, "A distracted enthusiast."  She was undoubtedly a woman of a very uncommon understanding, and of excellent piety. Nor was she any
more a "lunatic" than she was a heretic.
Another of this lively writer's assertions is, " Martin has spawned a strange brood of fellows called
Methodists, Moravians, Hutchinsonians, who are
madder than Jack was in his worst days."  I would
ask any one who knows what good breeding means, is
this language for a nobleman or a porter? But let the
language be as it may, is the sentiment just? To
say nothing of the Methodists, (although some of
them too are not quite out of their senses,) could his
lordship show me in England many more sensible
men that Mr. Gambold and Mr. Okely? And yet
both of these were called Moravians. Or could he
point out many men of stronger and deeper understanding than Dr. Horne and Mr. William  Jones?
(if he could pardon them for believing the Trinity.!)




284        Wesley his Own Historian.    [1770.
And yet both of those are Hutchinsonians. What
pity is it that so ingenious a man, like many others
gone before him, should pass so peremptory a sentence
in a cause which he does not understand! Indeed.
how could he understand it? How much has he read
upon the question? What sensible Methodist, Moravian, or Hutchinsonian did he ever calmly converse
with? What does he know of them, but from the
caricatures drawn by Bishop Lavington, or Bishop
Warburton?  And did he ever give himself the
trouble of reading the answers to those warm, lively
men? Why should a good-natured and a thinking
man thus condemn whole bodies of men by the
lump? In this I can neither read the gentleman,
the scholar, nor the Christian. Since the writing of
this, Lord Littleton is no more; he is mingled with
common dust. But as his book survives, there still
needs an answer to the unjust reflections contained
therein.
Druid Altars.
Saturday, Sept. I. I took a walk to the top of that
celebrated hill, Carn Brae. Here are many monuments of remote antiquity, scarce to be found in
any other part of Europe. Druid altars of enormous
size, being only huge rocks, strangely suspended one
upon the other; and rock basins, hollowed on the
surface of the rock, it is supposed, to contain the holy
water. It is probable these are at least coeval with
Pompey's theater, if not with the pyramids of Egypt.
And what are they the better for this? Of what
consequence is it, either to the dead or the living,
whether they have withstood the wastes of time for
three thousand or three hundred years?




1770.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        285
Twenty thousand Hearers.
Sunday, Sept. 2. At five in the morning I preached
in the natural amphitheater at Gwennap. The people
covered a circle of near fourscore yards, and could
not be fewer than twenty thousand.  Yet, upon inquiry, I found they all could hear distinctly, it being
a calm, still evening.
The two Brothers administer the Lord's Supper at Bristol.
Monday, Oct. I, and the following days, I preached
at many of the towns round Bristol, and found the
congregations increasing in every place.
Sunday, Oct. 7. My brother and I complied with
the desire of many of our friends, and agreed to administer the Lord's Supper every other Sunday at
Bristol. We judged it best to have the entire service, and so began at nine o'clock. After it was ended
I rode to Kingswood, gave an exhortation to the
children, and preached to as many as the house would
contain. A little before five I began at the Square,
and found no want of strength. At the conclusion
of the morning service I was weak and weary, hardly
able to speak. After preaching at Kingswood I was
better, and at night quite fresh and well.
Knowledge necessary to Stability.
Sunday, Nov. 4. At seven I met the society at Norwich, and administered the Lord's Supper to about a
hundred and fourscore persons.
Monday, zNov. 5. I met the leaders, and inquired
into the state of the society. In all England I find
no people like those of Norwich. They are eminently
"unstable as water." Out of two hundred, whom I




286        WtVesley his Own Historian.    [I770.
left here last year, sixty-nine are gone already! What
a blessing is knowledge when it is sanctified! What
stability can be expected without it? For let their
affections be ever so lively for the present, yet what
hold can you have upon a people who neither know
books nor men; neither themselves nor the Bible;
neither natural nor spiritual things?
Whitefield's Funeral Sermon:
Saturday, Nov. I0. I returned to London, and had
the melancholy news of Mr. Whitefield's death confirmed by his executors, who desired me to preach
his funeral sermon on Sunday, the i 8th. In order
to write this, I retired to Lewisham on Mffonday, and
on the Sunday following went to the chapel in Tottenham-Court-Road.  An immense multitude was
gathered together from all corners of the town. I
was at first afraid that a great part of the congregation would not be able to hear; but it pleased God
so to strengthen my voice, that even those at the
door heard distinctly. It was an awful season; all
were still as night; most appeared to be deeply
affected; and an impression was made on many which
we would hope will not speedily be effaced.
The time appointed for my beginning at the Tabernacle was half hour after five; but it was quite filled
at three-so I began at four. At first the noise was
exceeding great; but it ceased when I began to speak,
and my voice was again so strengthened that all who
were within could hear, unless an accidental noise
hindered here or there for a few moments.  0 that
all may hear the voice of Him with whom are the
issues of life and death; and who so loudly, by this




I770-71.]   Wesley his Own Historian.       287
unexpected stroke, calls all his children to love one
another!
Friday, Nov. 23. Being desired by the Trustees of
the Tabernacle at Greenwich to preach Mr. Whitefield's sermon there, I went over to-day for that purpose; but neither would this house contain the congregation. Those who could not get in made some
noise at first; but in a little while all were silent.
Here, likewise, I trust God has given a blow to that
bigotry which has prevailed for many years.
"A full Day of Work."
Tuesday, Dec. 25. This was a day full of work;
but blessed be God! not tiresome work. I began in
the Foundery at four; the service at West-street
began at nine. In the afternoon I met the children
at three, preached at five, and then had a comfortable
season with the society.
Monday, Dec. 3I. We concluded the year at the
chapel with the voice of praise and thanksgiving. How
many blessings has God poured upon us this year!
May the next be as this, and much more abundant!
The Annual Covenant renewed.
Tzuesday, Janz. I, I77I. A large congregation met
at Spitalfields in the evening in order to renew, with
one heart and one voice, the covenant with God.
This was not in vain; the spirit of glory and of God,
as usual, rested upon them.
Wednesday, yaln. 2. I preached in the evening, at
Deptford a kind of funeral sermon for Mr. Whitefield.
In every place I wish to show all possible respect to
the memory of that great and good man.




288         TWesley his Own Historian.,         [I77I.
Wesley's lost Time with an Infidel.
Thursday, ian. 3. I spent an hour and a half in
beating the air in reasoning with an infidel of the
lowest class. He told me roundly, " I believe God
is powerful and the Creator of all things; but I am
nothing obliged to him for creating me, since he did.
it only for his own pleasure.  Neither can I believe
that he is good, since he can remove all the evil in
the world if he will; and, therefore, it is God's fault,
and no one's else, that there is any evil in the universe."  I am  afraid we could not deny this if we
allowed that God had "from all eternity, unchangeably determined every thing, great and small, which
comes to pass in time."
An Event.
Wednesday, _fan. 23. For what cause I know not to
this day, -    set out for Newcastle, purposing " never
to return."   Non  earn  reliqui: Non dimisi: Non
revocabo. [I have not left her: I have not dismissed
her: I will not recall her.]
The Tombs of Westminster Abbey.
Monday, March 25. I showed a friend, coming out of
the country, the tombs in Westminster Abbey. The
two with which I still think none of the others
worthy to be compared are that of Mrs. Nightingale,
and that of the Admiral rising out of his tomb at the
resurrection. But the vile flattery inscribed on many
of them reminded me of that just reflection,
If on the sculptured marble you rely,
Pity that worth like his should ever die.
If credit to the real life you give,
Pity a wretch like him should ever live!




177i,.]9    Wesley his Own Historian.       289
The Widow's House,
Saturday, April 6. I gave the sacrament, at the
Widow's house, to four or five-and-twenty that are
widows indeed; all poor enough, several sick or infirm, three bedrid, one on the brink of eternity. But
almost all know in whom they have believed, and
walk worthy of their profession.
No Opposition
Thursday, April II. I preached at Loughan and
Athlone; Friday, I2, at Aghrim.
Satulday, April 13. I rode back to Athlone, where
there is now no opposition either from rich or poor.
The consequence of this is there is no zeal, while
the people " dwell at ease."  O what state upon earth
is exempt from danger! When persecution arises,
how many are offended! When it does not arise, how
many grow cold and leave their " first love!" Some
perish by the storm, but far more by the calm. "Lord,
save, or we perish!"
Ohurch Benefactors,
Sunday, April I4. I designed to preach abroad, but
the storm drove us into the house. This house was
built and given, with the ground on which it stands,
by a single gentleman. In Cork, one person, Mr.
Thomas Janes, gave between three and four hundred
pounds: toward the preaching-house. Toward that
in Dublin, Mr. Lunel gave four hundred.  I know no
such benefactors among the Methodists in England.
Wesley reminded of his Father's House,
TIVednesday, May 15. A gentleman desired me to
visit his daughter. I found a lovely, sensible woman,
19




290        1Wesley his Own Historian.      [I77I.
in the bloom of youth, scarce one-and-twenty, in the
last stage of a consumption. From that time I visited
her every day. In two or three days she was considerably better. But, as I expected, when the hot
weather came on the sweet flower withered away.
Saturday, May I8. I dined at Mr.'s. Such
another family I have not seen in the kingdom. He
and Mrs.     are in person, in understanding, and
in temper, made for each other. And their ten
children are in such order as I have not seen for
many years; indeed, never since I left my father's
house. May they never depart from the good way!
Ancient Ruins of Castle and Abbey.
Wednesday, May 22. After preaching at Balligarane,
I rode to Ashkayton. There are no ruins, I believe,
in the kingdom of Ireland to be compared to these.
The old Earl of Desmond's castle is very large, and
has been exceeding strong. Not far from this, and
formerly communicating with it by a gallery, is his
great hall, or banqueting room. The walls are still
firm and entire; and these, with the fine carvings of
the window frames, (all of polished marble,) give some
idea of what it was once. Its last master lived like a
prince for many years,. and rebelled over and over
against Queen Elizabeth. After his last rebellion,
his army being totally routed, he fled into the woods
with two or three hundred men. But the pursuit was
so hot that these were soon scattered from him, and
he crept alone into a small cabin. He was sitting
there, when a soldier came in and struck him. He
rose and said, "I am the Earl of Desmond." The
wretch, rejoicing that he had found so great a prize,




177 I.]    Wesley his Own Historian.       291
cut off his head at once. Queen Elizabeth and King
James allowed a pension to his relict for many years.
I have seen a striking picture of her, in her widow's
weeds, said to be taken when she was a hundred and
forty years old.
At a small distance from the castle stands the old
abbey, the finest ruin of the kind in the kingdom.
Not only the walls of the church, and many of the
apartments, but the whole cloisters are entire. They
are built of black marble exquisitely polished, and
vaulted over with the same; so that they are as firm
now as when they were built, perhaps seven or eight
hundred years ago; and if not purposely destroyed,
(as most of the ancient buildings in Ireland have been,)
may last these thousand years. But add these to the
years they have stood already, and what is it to eternity? A moment!
A Gift not attained by Nature or Art.
Friday, May 31. Observing many fashionable people in the court-house at Castlebar, I spoke with
such closeness and pungency as I cannot do but at
some peculiar seasons. It is indeed the gift of God,
and cannot be attained by all the efforts of nature
and art united.
Seed sown by the Way-side,
Saturday, rune 8. We set out for Ruskey, a little
town near Macquire's bridge. But before we had
gone nine miles we found a congregation waiting in
the street'at Lismolaw, where I know not who had
given notice that I was to preach. I at first thought
of riding on, but, fearing it might hurt the poor people,




292.        Wesley his Own H istorianz.     [I77I.
I alighted and preached immediately. They were all
attention while I explained; " Ye are saved through
faith." About noon I preached at Ruskey.
The Methodist Plan requires the Preacher's Heart and -Hand,
Monday, _/une I7. I met the singers for the last
time.  I joined them together two years ago; but, as
the preachers following took no care or thought about
them, they of course flew asunder.  And no wonder;
for nothing will stand in the Methodist plan, unless
the preacher has his heart and his hand in it. Every
preacher, therefore, should consider it is not his busi-.
ness to mind this or that thing only; but everything.
Kicked by a Horse.
Thursday, rune 20. We went on to Castle Caulfield.:
As we were walking in the afternoon, a horse that
was feeding turned short, and struck me on the small
of my back. Had he been but an inch or two nearer,
I should not have traveled any further. As it was,
I was well again in a few days.  In the evening I
preached, on the lovely green before the castle, to a
serious and large congregation.
" I am a Wonder to Myself."
Friday, Yine 28. I preached in the street at Portadown to a serious, well-behaved congregation; and in
the evening, at Kilmararty, to the largest congregation I have seen since we left Armagh. This day I
entered the sixty-ninth year of my age. I am still a
wonder to myself. My voice and strength are the
same as at nine-and-twenty.  This also hath: God
wrought.




I771.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          293
Heart Religion Branded as Fanaticism.
Monday, Aug. 12. I set out for Wales, and, after
preaching at Chepstow and Brecknock on Wednesday,
I4, came to the Hay. Here I met with Dr. Maclaine's
translation of "Mosheim's Ecclesiastical:History."
Certainly he is a very sensible translator of a.very
sensible writer; but I dare not affirm that either one
or the other was acquainted with inward religion.
The translator mentions, without any blame, Mr.
Shinstra's "Letter against Fanaticism;" which, if
the reasoning were just, would fix the charge of
fanaticism on our Lord himself and all his Apostles.
In truth I cannot but fear Mr. Shinstra is in the same
class with Dr. Conyers Middleton, and aims every
blow, though he seems to look another way, at the
fanatics who wrote the Bible. The very thing which
Mr. Shinstra calls fanaticism is no other than heart
religion; in other words, " righteousness, and peace,
and joy in the Holy Ghost." These must be felt, or
they have no being. All, therefore, who condemn
inward feelings in the gross, leave no place-either for
joy, peace, or love in religion, and consequently
reduce it to a dry, dead carcass.
A Oardinal's Tomb.
Thursday, Oct. 4. I found time to take a view of the
Winchester Cathedral. Here the sight of that bad
Cardinal's tomb, whom the sculptor has placed in a
posture of prayer, brought to my mind those fine
lines of Shakspeare which he put into the mouth
of Henry the Sixth:
Lord Cardinal,
If thou hast any hope of Heaven's grace
Give us a sign. He dies, and makes no sign.




294         Wesley ihis Own Historian.      [I77I.
The Place of Wesley's First Sermon.
Tuesday, Oct. I5. I went on to Witney. I am
surprised at the plainness and artlessness of this
people. Who would imagine that they lived within
ten, yea, or fifty miles of Oxford?
Wednesday, Oct. I6. I preached at South Lye.
Here it was that I preached my first sermon, six-andforty years ago. One man was in my present audience who heard it. Most of the rest are gone to their
long home. After preaching at Witney in the evening I met the believers apart, and was greatly refreshed among them.  So simple a people I scarce
ever saw. They did "open the window  in their
breast;" and it was easy to discern that God was
there, filling them "with joy and peace in believing."
Hoole's Translation of Tasso.
Monday, Oct. 2I. As I drove to Chatham  I read
Mr. Hoole's fine translation of Tasso's "Jerusalem
Delivered;" allowed, I suppose, by most judges of
poetry, to be not much inferior to the LEneid. But I
wonder Mr. Hoole was so imprudently faithful as to
present Protestants with all Tasso's Popish fooleries.
Those excrescences might have been pared off without
the least injury to the work. In the evening I
preached to a crowded audience, ripe for all the
promises of God. How good is it for fallen man to
earn his food by the sweat of his brow? Every-where
we find the laboring part of mankind the readiest to
receive the Gospel.
The Poor Rich Man.
Tuesday, Nov. 5. In our way to Bury we called at
Felsham, near which is the seat of the late Mr. Rey



I77I.]     Tl esley his Own Historian.       295
nolds. The house is, I think, the best contrived and
the most beautiful I ever saw. It has four fronts, and
five rooms on a floor, elegantly though not sumptuously furnished. At a small distance stands a delightful grove. On every side of this the poor rich
man, who had no hope beyond the grave, placed seats
to enjoy life as long as he could. But being resolved
none of his family should be " put into the ground,"
he built a structure in the midst of the grove, vaulted
above and beneath, with niches for coffins, strong
enough to stand for ages. In one of these he had
soon the satisfaction of laying the remains of his only
child; and, two years after, those of his wife. After
two years more, in the year I759, having eat, and
drank, and forgotten God for eighty-four years, he
went himself to give an account of his stewardship.
The late Duke of Cumberland.
Friday, Nov. 29. We viewed the improvements of
that active and useful man, the late Duke of Cumberland. The most remarkable work is the triangular
tower which he built on the edge of Windsor Park.
It is surrounded with shrubberies and woods, having
some straight, some serpentine walks in them, and
commands a beautiful prospect all three ways; a very
extensive one to the south-west. In the lower part
is an alcove, which must be extremely pleasant in a
summer evening. There is a little circular-projection
at each corner, one of which is filled by a geometrical
staircase; the other two contain little apartments,
one of which is a study. I was agreeably surprised
to find many of the books not only religious, but admirably well chosen. Perhaps the great man spent




296        Wesley his Own Historian.         [I77I.
many hours here, with only Him that seeth in secret;
and who can say how deep that change went, which
was so discernible in the latter part of his life? Hence
we went to Mr. Bateman's house, the oddest I ever
saw with my eyes. Every thing breathes antiquity;
scarce a bedstead is to be seen that is not a hundred
and fifty'years old; and every thing is quite out of
the common way; he scorns to have any thing like
his neighbors. For six hours, I suppose, these elegant
oddities would much delight a curious man; but after
six months they would probably give him no more
pleasure than a collection of feathers..Something Noble in his Ravings
Sunday, Dec. 8. I read a little more of that strange
book, Baron Swedenborg's Theologia Cawlestis.  It
surely contains many excellent things. Yet I cannot
but think the fever he had twenty years ago, when
he supposes he was "introduced into the society of
angels," really introduced him into the society of
lunatics; but still there is something noble even in
his ravings:
His mind has not yet lost
All its original brightness, but appears
Majestic, though in ruin.
A Reflection.
Monday, Dec. 30. At my brother's request, I sat
again for my picture. This melancholy employment
always reminds me of that natural reflection:
Behold, what frailty we in man may see!
His shadow is less given to change than he.




1772.]     XWesley his Own Historian.         297
A Sentimental Journey.
Tuesday, Feb. I I, I772. I casually took a volume
of.what is called "A Sentimental Journey through
France and Italy." Sentimental! what is that? It is
not English; he might as well say Continental.  It is
not sense. It conveys no determinate idea; yet one
fool makes many. And this nonsensical word (who
would believe it?) is become a fashionable one. However, the book agrees full well with the title; for one
is as queer as the other.  For oddity, uncouthness,
and unlikeness to all the world beside, I suppose the
writer is without a rival.
"Sum of all Villainies."
4Wednesday, Feb. 12. In returning I read a very
different book, published by an honest Quaker, on
that execrable sum of all villainies, commonly called
the Slave-Trade. I read of nothing like it in the
heathen world, whether ancient or modern; and it
infinitely exceeds, in every instance of barbarity,
whatever Christian slaves suffer in Mohammedan
countries.
Friday, Feb. I4. I began to execute a design, which
had long been in my thoughts, to print as accurate
an edition of my Works as a bookseller would do.
Surely I ought to be as exact for God's sake, as he
would be for money.
Practical Sympathy,
Friday, Feb. 2I. I met several of my friends who
had begun a subscription to prevent my riding on
horseback, which I cannot do quite so well since:a




298         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1772.
hurt which I got some months ago. If they continue
it, well; if not, i shall have strength according to
my need.
Had been to Boarding-school.
slMonday, April 6. In the afternoon I drank tea at
Am. O. But how was I shocked! The children
that used to cling about me, and drink in every word,
had been at a boarding-school. There they had unlearned all religion, and even seriousness; and had
learned pride, vanity, affectation, and whatever could
guard them against the knowledge and love of God.
Methodist parents who would send your girls headlong
to hell, send them to a fashionable boarding-school!
A little piece of Stateliness.
Tuesday, April 14. I set out for Carlisle. A great
part of the road was miserably bad. However, we
reached it in the afternoon, and found a small company of plain, loving people. The place where they
had appointed me to preach was out of the gate; yet
it was tolerably filled with attentive hearers. Afterward, inquiring for the Glasgow road, I found it was
not much round to go by Edinburgh; so I chose that
road, and went five miles forward this evening to one
of our friends' houses. Here we had a hearty welcome
sub lareparvulo, [in an humble dwelling,] with sweet
and quiet rest.
Wednesday, April 15. Though it was a lone house,
we had a large congregation at five in the morning.
Afterward we rode for upward of twenty miles through
a most delightful country; the fruitful mountains
rising on either hand, and the clear stream running
beneath. In the afternoon we had a furious storm of




1772.]     WHesley his Own Historian.       299
rain and snow; however, we reached Selkirk safe.
Here I observed a little piece of stateliness which
was quite new to me; the maid came in, and said,
"Sir, the lord of the stable waits to know if he should
feed your horses." We call him ostler in England.
Presented with the Freedom of the City.
Tuesday, April 28. We walked through the Duke of
Athol's gardens, in which was one thing I never saw
before-a summer-house in the middle of a greenhouse, by means of which one might in the depth of
winter enjoy the warmth of May, and sit surrounded
with greens and flowers on every side. In the evening
I preached once more at Perth, to a large and serious
congregation. Afterward they did me an honor I
never thought of-presented me with the freedom
of the city.
Another Martyr to Screaming.
Thursday, May 7. I took Thomas Cherry away
with me; but it was too late; he will hardly recover.
Let all observe, (that no more preachers may murder
themselves,) here is another martyr to screaming!
We had a huge congregation in the'eveninig at Dundee, it being the fast day before the sacrament.
Never in my life did I speak more plain or close;
let God apply it as pleaseth him.
Friday, May 8. I labored to reconcile those who
(according to the custom of the place) were vehemently contending about nothing.
Saturday, May 9. I went to Edinburgh.
A Monument of the Reign of Charles the Second.
Thursday, May 21. I went to the Bass, seven miles
from Dunbar, which, in the horrid reign of Charles the




300       -Wesley his Own Historian.    [I772.
Second, was the prison of those venerable men who
suffered the loss of all things for a good conscience. It
is a high rock surrounded by the sea, two or three
miles in circumference, and about two miles from the
shore.  The strong east wind made the water so
rough that the boat could hardly live; and when we
came to the only landing-place, (the other sides being
quite perpendicular,) it was with much difficulty that
we got up, climbing on our hands and knees. The
castle, as one may judge by what remains, was utterly
inaccessible. The walls of the chapel, and the Governor's house, are tolerably entire. The garden walls
are still seen near the top of the rock, with the well
in the midst of it.  How many prayers did the holy
men confined here offer up in that evil day! And
how many thanksgivings should we return for all
the liberty, civil and religious, which we enjoy?
The Famous Roman Oamp.
Friday, May 22. We took a view of the famous
Roman camp, lying on a mountain two or three
miles from the town. It is encompassed with two
broad and deep ditches, and is not easy of approach
on any side.  Here lay General Lesley with his
army, while Cromwell was starving below. He had
no way to escape; but the enthusiastic fury of the
Scots delivered him. When they marched into the
valley to swallow him up, he mowed them down like
grass.
Saturday, HMay 23. I went on to Alnwick, and
preached in the Town Hall. What a difference between an English and a Scotch congregation! These
judge themselves rather than the preacher; and their
aim is, not only to know, but to love and obey.




1772.]      Wesley his Own Historiian.        301
"Is James Watson here?"
Friday, f7une 5. Upon examination, I found the
society at Newcastle also smaller than it was two
years since. This I can impute to nothing but the
want of visiting from house to house, without which
the people will hardly increase either in number or
grace. In the following week I preached in many
towns round Newcastle, and on Saturday went again
to Sunderland.  In the evening we mightily wrestled
with God for an enlargement of his work. As we
were concluding, an eminent backslider came strongly
into my mind, and I broke out abruptly, " Lord, is
Saul also among the prophets! Is James Watson here?
If he be, show thy power!"  Down dropped James
Watson like a stone, and began crying for mercy.
Here, Lord, let all his wand'rings end,
And all his steps to theeward tend!
Field-preaching and Visiting from House to House a Cross.
Sunday, Sept. 6. I preached on the quay, at Kingswood, and near King's Square.  To this day fieldpreaching is a cross to me. But I know my commission, and see no other way of " preaching the Gospel
to every creature." In the following week I preached
at Bath, Frome, Corsley, Bradford, and Keynshan;
on Tuesday, Sept. I5, at Pensford.  Thence I went
to Publow, which is now what Leytonstone was once.
Here is a family indeed. Such mistresses, and such
a company of children as, I believe, all England cannot parallel!
Wednesday, Sept. I6. I spent an hour with them
in exhortation  and prayer, and was much com



302         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I772.
forted among them. I preached at Pensford at
eight, Paulton about one, and Coleford in the
evening.
Friday, Sept. i8. I preached very quietly at the
Devizes. Scarce one of the old persecutors is alive.
Very few of them lived out half their days; many
were snatched away in an hour when they looked not
for it.
Friday, Sept. 25. I went over to Kingswood again,
and had much satisfaction with the children.  On
Sunday I talked with the elder children one by one,
advising them as each had need; and it was easy to
perceive that God is again working in many of their
hearts.
Wednesday, Sept. 30. I began visiting the society
from house to house, taking them from west to east.
This will undoubtedly be a heavy cross, no way pleasing to flesh and blood. But I already saw how unspeakably useful it will be to many souls.
A Free and Full Salvation.
Sunday, Nov. 8. In discoursing on Psalm- xv, I, I
was led to speak more strongly and explicitly than
I had done for a long times before on the universal
love of God. Perhaps in times past, from an earnest
desire of living peaceably with all men, we have not
declared, in this respect, the whole counsel of God.
But since Mr. Hill and his allies have cut us off from
this hope, and proclaimed an inexpiable war, we see it
is our calling to go straight forward, declaring to all
mankind that Christ tasted death for all to cleanse
them from all sin.
Monday, Nov. 9. I began to expound (chiefly in




I772-73.]   Wesley his Own Historian.       303
the mornings, as I did some years ago) that compendium of the Holy Scriptures, the first Epistle of
St. John.
Wesley Revises his Letters.
Friday, ian. I, I773. We (as usual) solemnly renewed our covenant with God.
AMonday, 7an. 4. I began revising my letters and
papers. One of them was wrote above a hundred
and fifty years ago, (in I619,) I suppose by my grandfather's father, to her he was to marry in a few days.
Several were wrote by my brothers and me when at
school, many while we were at the University; abundantly testifying (if it be worth knowing) what was
our aim from our youth up.
We observed Friday, Jan. 8, as a day of fasting
and prayer, on account of the general want of trade
and scarcity of provisions. The next week I made
an end of revising my letters; and from those I had
both wrote and received I could not but make one
remark-that for above these forty years, of all the
friends who were once the most closely united, and
afterward separated from me, every one had separated
himself! He left me, not I him. And from both
mine and their own letters, the steps whereby they
did this are clear and undeniable.
Wesley's Estimate of Captain Webb.
Tuesday, Feb. 2. Captain Webb preached at the
Foundery. I admire the wisdom of God in still
raising up preachers according to the various tastes
of men.  The Captain is all life and fire; therefore,
although he is not deep or regular, yet many who




304:        Wesley his Owen Historian.     [1773.
would not hear a better preacher flock together to
hear him.  And many are convinced under his
preaching, some justified, a few built up in love.
A Physician to the Poor.
/eune 14. 1 preached in the evening at Lisburn. All
the time I could spare here was taken up by poor
patients. I generally asked, "What remedies haveyou used?" and was not a little surprised. What
has fashion to do with physic? Why, (in Ireland, at
least,) almost as much as with head-dress. Blisters, for
any thing or nothing, were all the fashion when I was
in Ireland last. Now the grand fashionable medicine,
for twenty diseases (who would imagine it?) is mercury sublimate! Why is it not a halter or a pistol?
They would cure a little more speedily.
Wesley's first entire Night of Wakefulness,
Friday, y'une 25. I went on to Dublin. I left three
hundred and seventy-eight members in the society,
and found four hundred and twelve, many of whom
were truly alive to God.
Saturday, Auly 3. I sent to the commanding officer
to desire leave to preach in the barracks; but he
replied he would have no innovations.  No; whoredom, drunkenness, cursing and swearing forever!
Monday, july 5. About eleven we crossed Dublin
bar, and were at Hoy Lake the next afternoon. This
was the first night I ever lay awake in my life, though
I was at ease in body and mind. I believe few can
say this: in seventy years I never lost one night's
sleep.!




1773.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         305
Dr. Leland's "History of Ireland."
7Aly 5. In my passage I read Dr. Leland's " History
of Ireland;" a fine writer, but unreasonably partial.
I can easily believe that the Irish were originally
Tartars or Scythians, though calling at Spain in their
way; but not that they were a jot less barbarous than
their descendants in Scotland, or that ever they were
a civilized nation till they were civilized by the English; much less that Ireland was, in the seventh or
eighth century, the grand seat of learning; that it
had many famous colleges, in one of which only, Armagh, there were seven thousand students. All this,
with St. Patrick's converting thirty thousand at one
sermon, I rank with the history of "Bel and the
Dragon."
Wesley's Loss by his Literary Labors,
Wednesday, iduly 2I. We had our quarterly meeting at London, at which I was surprised to find that
our income does not yet answer our expense. We
were again near two hundred pounds bad. My private
account I find still worse. I have labored as much
as many writers, and all my labor has gained me in
seventy years is a debt of five or six hundred pounds.
A Congregation of Thirty Thousand!
Saturday, Aug. 22. I preached in Illogan and at
Redruth. Sunday, 23, in St. Agnes Church-town at
eight; about one at Redruth; and at five in the
amphitheater at Gwennap. The people both filled it
and covered the ground round about to a considerable distance. So that, supposing the space to be
fourscore yards square, and to contain five persons in
20




306        VWesley his Own Historian.     [I773.
a square -yard, there must be above two-and-thirty
thousand people; the largest assembly I ever preached
to. Yet I found, upon inquiry, all could hear, even
to the skirts of the congregation! Perhaps the first
time that a man of seventy had been heard by thirty
thousand persons at once!
Children's Prayer-meeting at Kingswood.
Friday, Sept. I o. I went over to Kingswood and
inquired into the present state of the children; I found
part of them had walked closely with God; part had
not and were in heaviness. Hearing in the evening
that they were got to prayer by themselves in the
school, I went down; but not being willing to disturb
them, stood by the window. Two or three had gone
in first, then more and more, till above thirty were
gathered together. Such a sight I never saw before
nor since. Three or four stood and stared as if
aftrighted; the rest were all on their knees pouring
out their souls before God in a manner not easy to be
described. Sometimes one, sometimes more, prayed
aloud; sometimes a cry went up from them all; till
five or six of them, who were in doubts before, saw
the clear light of God's countenance.
Wesley Disabled, but at Work,
Monday, Sept. I3. My cold remaining, I was ill able
to speak. In the evening I was much worse, my
palate and throat being greatly inflamed. However,
I preached as I could, but I could then go no further.
I could swallow neither liquids nor solids, and the
windpipe seemed nearly closed. I lay down at my
usual time, but the defluxion of rheum was so uninter_




1773-74.]   Wesley his Own Historian.      307
rupted that I slept not a minute till near three in the
morning. On' the following nine days I grew better.
Friday, Sept. I7. I went to Kingswood, and found
several of the children still alive to God.
Saturday, Sept. 18. I gave them a short exhortation,
which tired but did not hurt me.
Sunday, Sept. 19. I thought myself able to speak
to the congregation, which I did for half an hour;
but afterward I found a pain in my left side and in
my shoulder by turns, exactly as I did at Canterbury
twenty years before. In the morning I could scarce
lift my hand to my head; but, after being electrified,
I was much better, so that I preached with tolerable
ease in the evening, and the next evening read the
letters, though my voice was weak. From this time
I slowly recovered my voice and my strength, and
on Sunday preached without any trouble.
An Important Branch of the Pastoral Office.
Tuesday, ianz. 12, 1774. I began at the east end
of the town to visit the society from house to house.
I know no branch of the pastoral office which is of
greater importance than this. But it is so grievous
to flesh and blood that I can prevail on few, even of
our preachers, to undertake it.
Sunday, yan. 23. Mr. Pentycross assisted me at
chapel. O what a curse upon the poor sons of men
is the confusion of opinions! Worse by many degrees
than the curse of Babel, the confusion of tongues.
What but this could prevent this amiable young man
from joining heart and hand with us?
Monday, y4an. 24. I was desired by Mrs. Wright,
of New York, to let her take my effigy in wax-work.




308         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I774.
She has that of Mr. Whitefield and many others, but
none of them, I think, comes up to a well-drawn
picture.
Harvest from Seed Sown by the Way-side.
Sunday, April 24. It being a cold and stormy day,
Haworth Church contained the people tolerably well.
On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday I preached at
Bingley and Yeadon; and on Thursday opened the
new house at Wakefield. What a change is here,
since our friend was afraid to let me preach in his
house, lest the mob should pull it down! So I
preached in the main street, and then was sown the
first seed which has since borne so plenteous a
harvest. Hence I went to Leeds, and on Saturday,
30, to Birstal. Here, on the top of the hill, was the
standard first set up four-and-thirty years ago. And
since that time what hath God wrought!
A Device of Satan.
Sunday, May I. I preached at eight on that delicate
device of Satan to destroy the whole religion of the
heart, the telling men not to regard frames or feelings,
but to live by naked faith; that is, in plain terms, not
to regard either love, joy, peace, or any other fruit of
the Spirit; not to regard whether they feel these, or the
reverse; whether their souls be in a heavenly or hellish frame! At one I preached at the foot of the hill to
many thousand hearers, and at Leeds to about the
same number, whom I besought in strong terms
not to receive " the grace of God in vain."
State of Things at Glasgow,
Thursday, May I2. I went in the stage coach to
Glasgow, and on Friday and Saturday preached on




I774.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       309
the old green to a people, the greatest part of whom
hear much, know every thing, and feel nothing.
Sunday, May 15. My spirit was moved within me
at the sermons I heard both morning and afternoon.
They contained much truth, but were no more likely
to awaken one soul than an Italian opera. In the
evening a multitude of people assembled on the green,
to whom I earnestly applied'these words: " Though
I have all knowledge, though I have all faith, though
I give all my goods to feed the poor," etc., "and have
not love, I am nothing."
Monday, May I6. In the afternoon, as also at seven
in the morning, I preached in the kirk at Port Glasgow. My subjects were death and judgment, and I
spoke as home as I possibly could. The evening
congregation at Greenock was exceeding large. I
opened and enforced these awful words, "Strait is
the gate, and narrow is the way, that leadeth unto
life." I know not that ever I spoke more strongly.
And some fruit of it quickly appeared, for the house,
twice as large as that at Glasgow, was thoroughly
filled at five in the morning.
Tuesday, May I7. In the evening I preached on
the green at Glasgow once more, although the north
wind was piercing cold. At five in the morning I
commended our friends to God. How is it that there
is no increase in this society? It is exceeding easy
to answer. One preacher stays here two or three
months at a time, preaching on Sunday mornings,
and three or four evenings in a week. Can a Methodist
preacher preserve either bodily health or spiritual life
with this exercise? And if he is but half alive, what
will the people be? Just so it is at Greenock too.




310         Wesley his Own'Historian.     [I774.
" ould not find the Way to their Hearts."
Saturday, May 2 I. I returned to Perth, and preached
in the evening to a large congregation, but I could
not find the way to their hearts. The generality of
the people here are so wise that they need no more
knowledge, and so good that they need no more religion!  Who can warn them  that are brimful of
wisdom and goodness to flee from the wrath to come?
LordE K —-'s Essay on Liberty and Neoessity.
May 23. In the evening I preached at Dundee,
and Tuesday, 24, went on to Arbroath. In the way
I read Lord K -'s plausible "Essays on Morality
and Natural Religion." Did ever man take so much
pains to so little purpose, as he does in his Essay on
Liberty and Necessity? Cui bono? What good would
it do to mankind if he could convince them that they
are a mere piece of clock-work? that they have no
more share in directing their own actions than in
directing the sea or the north wind? He owns that
"if men saw themselves in this light, all sense of
moral obligation, of right and wrong, of good or ill
desert, would immediately cease." Well, my Lord
sees himself in this light; consequently, if his own
doctrine is true, he has no "sense of moral obligation,
of right and wrong, of good or ill desert." Is he not
then excellently well qualified for a judge? Will he
condemn a man for not "holding the wind in his
fist?"
Wesley Arrested by Sheriff's Warrant.
Saturday, 7une 4. I found uncommon liberty at
Edinburgh in applying Ezekiel's vision of the dry
bones. As I was walking home two men followed




I774.1      Wesley his Own Historizan.      3 I I
me, one of whom said, "Sir, you are my prisoner. I
have a warrant from the Sheriff to carry you to the
Tolbooth." At first I thought he jested; but finding
the thing was serious, I desired one or two of our
friends to go with me. When we were safe lodged in a
house adjoining to the Tolbooth, I desired the officer
to let me see his warrant. I found the prosecutor
was one George Sutherland, once a member of the
society. He had deposed, "That Hugh Saunderson,
one of John Wes]ey's preachers, had taken from his
wife one hundred pounds in money, and upward of
thirty pounds in goods; and had, besides that, terrified her into madness; so that, through the want
of her help and the loss of business, he was damaged
five hundred pounds."
Before the Sheriff, Archibald Cockburn, Esq., he
had deposed, " That the said John Wesley and Hugh
Saunderson, to evade her pursuit, were preparing to fly
the country; and therefore he desired his warrant to
search for, seize, and incarcerate them in the Tolbooth till they should find security for their appearance."  To this request the Sheriff had assented, and
given his warrant for that purpose. But why does
he incarcerate John Wesley? Nothing is laid against
him, less or more. Hugh Saunderson preaches in connection with him. What then? Was not the Sheriff
strangely overseen?  Mr. Sutherland furiously insisted that the officer should carry us to the Tolbooth
without delay. However, he waited till two or three
of our friends came, and gave a bond for our appearance on the 24th instant. Mr. Sutherland did appear,
the cause was heard, and the prosecutor fined one
thousand pounds,




312        Wesley his Own Historian.      [I774.
Wesley's Remarkable Preservation.
Monday,  atlune 20. About nine I set out for Horsley, with Mr. Hopper and Mr. Smith. I took Mrs
Smith and her two little girls in the chaise with me
About two miles from the town, just on the brow of
the hill, on a sudden both the horses set out, without
any visible cause, and flew down the hill like an arrow
out of a bow. In a minute John fell off the coachbox. The horses then went on full speed, sometimes
to the edge of the ditch on the right, sometimes on
the left. A cart came up against them; they avoided
it as exactly as if the man had been on the box. A
narrow bridge was at the foot of the hill. They went
directly over the middle of it. They ran up the next
hill with the same speed; many persons meeting us,
but getting out of the way. Near the top of the hill
was a gate, which led into a farmer's yard. It stood
open. They turned short, and ran through it, without touching the gate on one side or the post on the
other. I thought, " However, the gate which is on
the other side of the yard, and is shut, will stop
them;" but they rushed through it as if it had been
a cobweb, and galloped on through the corn-field.
The little girls cried out, " Grandpapa, save us!" I
told them, " Nothing will hurt you; do not be afraid;"
feeling no more fear or care, (blessed be God!) than
if I had been sitting in my study. The horses ran.
on till they came to the edge of a very steep precipice.
Just then Mr. Smith, who could not overtake us
before, galloped in between. They stopped in a
moment. Had they gone on ever so little, he and
we must have gone down together!




1774.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       3I3
I am persuaded both evil and good angels had a
large share in this transaction how large we do not
know now, but we shall know hereafter. I think
some of the most remarkable circumstances were:
I. Both the horses, which were tame and quiet as
could be, starting out in a moment just at the top of
the hill, and running down full speed. 2. The coachman's being thrown on his head with such violence,
and yet not hurt at all. 3. The chaise running again
and again to the edge of each ditch, and yet not into
it. 4. The avoiding the cart. 5. The keeping just
the middle of the bridge. 6. The turning short
through the first gate, in a manner that no coachman in England could have turned them when in
full gallop. 7. The going through the second gate
as if it had been but smoke, without slackening their
pace at all. This would have been impossible had
not the end of the chariot-pole struck exactly on the
center of the gate, whence the whole, by the sudden, impetuous shock, was broke into small pieces.
8. That the little girl, who used to have fits, on my
saying, "Nothing will hurt you," ceased crying,
and was quite composed. Lastly, That Mr. Smith
struck in just then. In a minute more we had been
down the precipice, and had not the horses then
stopped at once, they must have carried him and us
down together. " Let those give thanks whom the
Lord hath redeemed, and delivered from the hand of
the enemy!"
Wesley's Seventy-second Birthday
Tuesday, Yune 28. This being my birthday, the
first day of my seventy-second year, I was considering, How is this, that I find just the same strength as




314         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I774.
I did thirty years ago? That my sight is considerably better now, and my nerves firmer than they
were then? That I have none of the infirmities of
old age, and have lost several I had in my youth?
The grand cause is the good pleasure of God, who
doeth whatsoever pleaseth him. The chief means
are, I. My constantly rising at four for about fifty
years. 2. My generally preaching at five in the
morning-one of the most healthy exercises in the
world. 3. My never traveling less, by sea or land, than
four thousand five hundred miles in a year.  In the
evening I preached at Yarn, about eleven the next
day at Osmotherly, and in the evening at Thirsk.
Thursday, /unne 30. I preached at Hutton Rudby, and
found still remaining a few sparks of the uncommon
flame which was kindled there ten years ago. It was
quenched chiefly by the silly, childish contentions of
those who were real partakers of that great blessing.
"It is a Miraole if they do not."
Monday, uly 25. I went on to Sheffield, and on
Tuesday met the select society, but it was reduced from
sixty to twenty, and but half of these retained all
they once received! What a grievous error to think
that those once saved from sin cannot lose what they
have gained! It is a miracle if they do not, seeing
all earth and hell are so enraged against them; while
meantime so very few, even of the children of God,
skillfully endeavor to strengthen their hands.
Good Advice to Electors..Monday, Oct. 3, and on Tuesday and Wednesday, I
examined the society.




1 774.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       315
Thursday, Oct. 6. I met those of our society who
had votes in the ensuing election, and advised them,
I. To vote without fee or reward for the person they
judged most worthy; 2. To speak no evil of the
person they vote against; and, 3. To take care their
spirits were not sharpened against those that voted
on the other side.
John Downes, a Genius.
Monday, Oct. 3i, and the following days, I visited
the societies near London.
Friday, Nov. 5. In the afternoon John Downes
(who had preached with us many years) was saying,
" I feel such a love to the people at West-street that
I could be content to die with them. I do not find
myself very well, but I must be with them this evening."  He went thither, and began preaching on
" Come unto me, ye that are weary and heavy laden."'
After preaching ten or twelve minutes he sank
down, and spake no more till his spirit returned to
God.
I suppose he was by nature full as great a genius
as Sir Isaac Newton. I will mention but two or
three instances of it: When he was at school learning algebra, he came one day to his master and said,
"Sir, I can prove this proposition a better way than
it is proved in the book.' His master thought it
could not be, but upon trial acknowledged it to be
so.  Some time after his father sent him to Newcastle with a clock, which was to be mended. He
observed the clock-maker's tools, and the manner
how he took it to pieces and put it together again;
and when he came home, first made himself tools,




316         Wesley his Own Historian.     [1774.
and then made a clock which went as true as any in
the town. I suppose such strength of genius as this
has scarce been known in Europe before.
Another proof of it was this: Thirty years ago, while
I was shaving, he was whittling the top of a stick.
I asked, "What are you doing?"  He answered,
" I am taking your face, which I intend to engrave on
a copper plate." Accordingly, without any instruction, he first made himself tools, and then engraved the
plate.  The second picture which he engraved was
that which was prefixed to the "Notes upon the
New Testament." Such another instance I suppose
not all England, or perhaps Europe, can produce. For
several monthspast he had far deeper communion
with God than ever he had had in his life; and for
some days he had been frequently saying, " I am so
happy that I scarce know how to live. I enjoy such
fellowship with God as I thought could not be
had on this side of heaven."  And having now
finished his course of fifty-two years, after a
long conflict with pain, sickness, and poverty, he
gloriously rested from his labors, and entered into
the joy of his Lord.
Only Two Reasons allowed for not Attending Olasa
Thursday, Nov. 17. About noon I preached at
Lowestoft, where the little flock are remarkably lively.
The evening congregation at Yarmouth was all attention, and truly the power of God was present to heal
them. In the evening I returned to Norwich. Never
was a poor society so neglected as this has been for
the year past. The morning preaching was at an
end, the bands suffered all to fall in pieces, and no




I774.]      Wesley his Own Historian.      317
care at all taken of the classes, so that whether they
met or not it was all one; going to church and sacrament were forgotten, and the people rambled hither
and thither as they listed.
On Friday evening I met the society, and told them
plain I was resolved to have a regular society or none.
I then read the rules, and desired every one to consider whether he was willing to walk by these rules
or no.  Those in particular of meeting their class
every week, unless hindered by distance or sickness,
(the only reasons for not meeting which I could allow,)
and being constant at church and sacrament. I desired those who were so minded to meet me the next
night, and the rest to stay away. The next night we
had far the greater part, on whom I strongly enforced
the same thing.
Sunday, Nov. 20. I spoke to every leader concerning every one under his care, and put out every person
whom they could not recommend to me. After this
was done, out of two hundred and four members, one
hundred and seventy-four remained.  And these
points shall be carried if only fifty remain in the
society.
A Very Small Boat.
Friday, Nov. 25. I set out between eight and nine
in a one-horse chaise, the wind being high and cold
enough. Much snow lay on the ground, and much
fell as we crept along over the fen banks. Honest
Mr. Tubbs would needs walk and lead the horse
through water and mud up to his mid-leg, smiling
and saying, " We fen-men do not mind a little dirt."
When we had gone about four miles the road would
not admit of a chaise, so I borrowed a horse and




318          Wesley his Own Historian.   [I774-75.
rode forward, but not far, for all the grounds were
under water. Here, therefore, I procured a boat full
twice- as large as a kneading-trough. I was at one
end and a boy at the other, who paddled me safe to
Erith.
A Lovely Place and Family.
Monday, May 22, I775. I spent two or three hours
in one of the loveliest places, and with one of the
loveliest families in the kingdom. Almost all I heard
put me in mind of those beautiful lines of Prior:
" The nymph did like the scene appear,
Serenely pleasant, calmly fair;
Soft fell her words, as flew the air."
How willingly could I have accepted the invitation
to spend a few days here! Nay, at present I must
be about my Father's business; but I trust to meet
them in a still lovelier place.
Dr. Leibnitz Sharply Criticised.
May. Between Limerick and Castlebar I read
over the famous controversy between Drs. Clarke and
Leibnitz. And is this he whom the King of Prussia
extols as something more than human? So poor a
writer have I seldom read, either as to sentiments
or temper.  In sentiment he is a thorough fatalist,
maintaining roundly and without reserve that God
has absolutely decreed from all eternity whatever is
done in time, and that no creature can do more good
or less evil than God has peremptorily decreed. And
his temper is just suitable to his sentiments. He is
haughty, self-conceited, sour, impatient of contradiction, and holds his opponent in utter contempt,
though in truth he is but a child in his hands.




I1775.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       319
"Up and Be Doing!"
Sunday, july 23. I again assisted at St. Patrick's
in delivering the elements of the Lord's Supper. In
the evening I embarked in the Nonpareil, and about
ten on Tuesday morning landed at Park Gate.
Wednesday, _7uly 26. I found one relic of my illness,
my hand shook so that I could hardly write my name;
but after I had been well electrified by driving four
or five hours over very rugged, broken pavement, my
complaint was removed, and my hand was as steady
as when I was ten years old. About noon I preached
in the shell of the house at Wigan. In the middle
of the sermon came an impetuous storm of thunder,
lightning, and rain, which added much to the solemnity of the occasion.
Thursday, _yuly 27. I went on to Miss Bosanquet's
and prepared for the Conference. How willingly
could I spend the residue of a busy life in this delightful retirement! But,
" Man was not born in shades to lie!"
Up and be doing! Labor on, till
"Death sings a requiem to the parting soul."
Suncday, 7-uly 30. I preached under Birstal Hill,
and the greater part of the huge audience could hear
while I enforced, "When the breath of man goeth
forth he turneth again to his dust, and then all his
thoughts perish." I preached at Leeds in the evening,
and found strength in proportion to my work
Examination of Character, and Conference.
Tuesday, Azug. I. Our Conference began. Having
received several letters intimating that many of the




320         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1775.
preachers were utterly unqualified for the work,
having neither grace nor gifts sufficient for it, I determined to examine this weighty charge with all
possible exactness.  In order to this I read those
letters to all the Conference, and begged that every
one would freely propose and enforce whatever objection he had to any one. The objections proposed
were considered at large; in two or three difficult
cases committees were appointed for that purpose.
In consequence of this we were all fully convinced
that the charge advanced was without foundation;
that God has really sent those laborers into his
vineyard, and has qualified them for the work; and
we were all more closely united together than we
have been for many years.
The Amphitheater Wesley's Favorite Preaching-place.
Sunday, Sept. 3. I preached at eight in St. Agnes
Church-town on " Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ
and thou shalt be saved." A young woman followed
me into the house weeping bitterly, and crying out,
"I must have Christ; I will have Christ. Give me
Christ or else I die!"  Two or three of us claimed
the promise in her behalf. She was soon filled with
joy unspeakable, and burst out, "0 let me die! Let
me go to him now! How can I bear to stay here any
longer!" We left her full of that peace which passeth
all understanding. About eleven I preached at Redruth; at five in the evening in the amphitheater at
Gwennap. I think this is the most magnificent
spectacle which is to be seen on this side heaven.
And no music is to be heard upon earth comparable
to the sound of many thousand voices, when they are




I775.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       32I
all harmoniously joined together, singing praises to
God and the Lamb.
The Sentiments of Lord Cheoterfield Denounced.
Thursday, Oct. I2. About noon I preached at Watlington, and in the evening at Oxford, in a large house
formerly belonging to the Presbyterians; but it was
not large enough; many could not get in. Such a
congregation I have not seen at Oxford, either for
seriousness or number, for more than twenty years.
I borrowed here a volume of Lord Chesterfield's
Letters, which I had heard very strongly commended.
And what did I learn? That he was a man of much
wit, middling sense, and some learning; but as absolutely void of virtue as any Jew, Turk, or Heathen
that ever lived. I say not only void of all religion,
(for I doubt whether he believed there is a God,
though he tags most of his letters with the name, for
better sound sake,) but even of virtue, of justice, and
mercy, which he never once recommended to his son.
And truth he sets at open defiance; he continually
guards him against it. Half his letters inculcate deep
dissimulation, as the most necessary of all accomplishments. Add to this his studiously instilling into the
young man all the principles of debauchery when,
himself was between seventy and eighty years old.
Add his cruel censure of that amiable man, the Archbishop of Cambray, (quantum dispar illi,) [how unequal to him,] as a mere time-serving- hypocrite! And
this is the favorite of the age! Whereas, if justice and
truth take place, if he is rewarded according to his
desert, his name will stink to all generations.
21




322-        Wesley his Own Historian.   [1775-76.
Wesley's Motive for Writing His "Oalm Address to the
American Colonies."
Satzurday, Nov. i i. I made some additions to the
"Calm Address to our American Colonies." Need
any one ask from what motive this was wrote? Let
him look around: England is in a flame! A flame of
malice and rage against the king and almost all that
are in authority under him. I labor to put out this
flame. Ought not every true patriot to do the same?
If hireling writers on either side judge of me by themselves, that I cannot help.
Wesley Buys an Estate.
M'aay, I 776. About noon I preached at the New Mills,
nine miles from Banff, to a large congregation of
plain, simple people. As we rode in the afternoon
the heat overcame me, so that I was weary and faint
before we came to Keith; but I no sooner stood up
in the market-place than I forgot my weariness, such
were the seriousness and attention of the whole congregation, though as numerous as that at Banff. Mr.
Gordon, the minister of the parish, invited me to
supper, and told me his kirk was at my service. A
little society is formed here already, and is in a fair
way of increasing; but they were just now in danger
of losing their preaching-house, the owner being determined to sell it. I saw but one way to secure it
for them, which was to buy it myself. So (who would
have thought it?) I bought an estate consisting of
two houses, a yard, a garden, with three acres of good
land. But he told me flat, " Sir, I will take no less
for it than sixteen pounds, ten shillings, to be paid,
part now, part at Michaelmas, and the residue next
May."




1776.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          323
Wesley Seventy-three Years Old.
Friday, Yune 28. I am seventy-three years old, and
far abler to preach than I was at three-and-twenty.
What natural means has God used to produce so
wonderful an effect? I. Continual exercise and ch. nge
of air, by traveling above four thousand miles in a
year; 2. Constant rising at four; 3. The ability, if
ever I want, to sleep immediately; 4. The never
losing a night's sleep in my life; 5. Two violent fevers,
and two deep consumptions. These, it is true, were
rough medicines, but they were of admirable service,
causing my flesh to come again as the flesh of a little
child. May I add, lastly, evenness of temper? I feel
and grieve, but. by the grace of God I fret at nothing.
But still " the help that is done upon earth he doeth
it himself." Ahd this he doeth in answer to many
p rayers.
Fasting and Prayer for the Brethren in America.
Tuesday, Auzg. 6. Our Conference began and ended
on Friday, 9, which we observed with fasting and
prayer, as well for our own nation as for our brethren
in America. In several Conferences we have had
great love and unity; but in this there was, over and
above, such a general seriousness and solemnity of
spirit as we scarcely have had before.
Sunday, Aug. I I. About half an hour after four I
set out, and at half an hour after eleven on Monday
came to Bristol. I found Mr. Fletcher a little better,
and proposed his taking a journey with me to Cornwall, nothing being so likely to restore his health as
a journey of four or five hundred miles; but his physician would in no wise consent, so I gave up the point.




324:       Wesley his Own Historian.    [i776.
Wesley's First Interview with Dr. Coke.
Tuesday, Aug. 13. I preached at Taunton, and afterward went with Mr. Brown to Kingston. The large
old parsonage is pleasantly situated close to the
church-yard, just fit for a contemplative man. Here
I found a clergyman, Dr. Coke, late Gentleman Commoner of Jesus College in Oxford, who came twenty
miles on purpose. I had much conversation with
him, and a union then began which I trust shall
never end.
Why the Work of God does not Prosper.
Wednesday, Aug. I4. I preached at Tiverton, and
on Thursday went on to Launceston. Here I found
the plain reason why the work of God had gained no
ground in this circuit all the year. The preachers
had given up the Methodist testimony. Either they
did not speak of perfection at all, (the peculiar doctrine
committed to our trust,) or they spoke of it only in
general terms, without urging the believers to " go on
unto perfection," and to expect it every moment.
And wherever this is not earnestly done, the work
of God does not prosper.
Love Supplies all Defects.
Wednesday, Sept. 4. I was desired to call at Ottery,
a large town eleven miles from Exeter. I preached
in the market-house to abundance of people, who
behaved with great decency. At five I preached in
the market-place at Axminster to a still larger congregation. I have seldom heard people speak with
more honesty and simplicity than many did at the
love-feast which followed. I have not seen a more




1776.]       Wesley his Own Historian.        325
unpolished people than these; but love supplies all
defects. It supplies all the essentials of good breeding, without the help of a dancing master.
Wesley Visits the Bristol Society from House to House.
Monday, Sept. 9. I began what I had long intended,
visiting the society from house to house, setting apart
at least two hours in a day for that purpose. I was
surprised to find the simplicity with which one and
all spoke, both of their temporal and spiritual state.
Nor could I easily have known, by any other means,
how great a work God has wrought among them. I
found exceeding little to reprove, but much to praise
God for.
Celebrated Gardens.
Wednesday, Sept. I I. I preached about one at Bath,
and about six in a meadow near the preaching-house in
Frome, besought a listening multitude " not to receive
the grace of God in vain."
Thursday, Sept. 12. I spent about two hours in Mr.
Hoare's gardens at Stourton.  I have seen the most
celebrated gardens in England, but these far exceed
them all. I. In the situation, being laid out on the
sloping sides of a semicircular mountain. 2. In the
vast basin of water inclosed between them, covering,
I suppose, sixty acres of ground. 3. In the delightful interchange of shady groves and sunny glades,
curiously mixed together. Above all, in the lovely
grottoes, two of which excel every thing of the kind
which I ever saw:-the fountain grotto, made entirely
of rock-work, admirably well imitating nature; and
the castle grotto, into which you enter unawares




326         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I 776.
beneath a heap of ruins. This is within totally built
of roots of trees, wonderfully interwoven. On one
side of it is a little hermitage, with a lamp, a chair, a
table, and bones upon it.
Others were delighted with the temples, but I was
not: I. Because several of the statues about them
were mean. 2. Because I cannot admire the images
of devils, and we know the gods of the heathens are
but devils. 3. Because I defy all mankind to reconcile statues with nudities, either to common sense or
common decency. Returning from thence through
Maiden Bradley, we saw  the clumsy house of the
Duke of Somerset, and afterward the grand and
elegant one of Lord Weymouth, beautifully situated
in a lovely park.
The Power of God Wesley's Strength.
Sunday, Sept. 22. After reading prayers, preaching, and administering the sacrament at Bristol, I
hastened away to Kingswood, and preached under
the trees to such a multitude as had not been lately
seen there. I began in King's Square a little before
five, where the word of God was quick and powerful.
And I was no more tired at night than when I rose
in the morning.  Such is the power of God! After
settling all things at Bristol and Kingswood, and
visiting the rest of the societies in Somersetshire,
Wiltshire, and Hants, I returned in October to
London with Mr. Fletcher.
East Indies-Wesley Indignant.
Wednesday, Nov. I3. I set out with Mr. Fletcher
to Norwich.  I took coach at twelve, slept till six,
and then spent the time very agreeably in conversa



I776-77.]    Wesley his Own Historian.       327
tion, singing, and reading. I read Mr. Bolt's account
of the affairs in the East Indies, I suppose much
the best that is extant.  But what a scene is here
opened! What consummate villains, what devils
incarnate, were the managers there!  What utter
strangers to justice, mercy, and truth; to every sentiment of humanity! I believe no Heathen history contains a parallel. I remember none in all the annals of
antiquity. Not even the divine Cato, or the virtuous
Brutus, plundered the provinces committed to their
charge with such merciless cruelty as the English
have plundered the desolated provinces of Indostan.
No Intermission of the Work.
Tuesday, Dec. 3I. We concluded the year with
solemn praise to God for continuing his great work
in our land. It has never been intermitted one year
or one month since the year I738, in which my
brother and I began to preach that strange doctrine
of salvation by faith.
Charmed with the Book of Eoolesiastes.
Wednesday, ian. I, I777. We met, as usual, to
renew  our covenant with God.  It was a solemn
season, wherein many found his power present to
heal, and were enabled to urge their way with
strength renewed.
Thursday, ian. 2. I began expounding, in order,
the Book of Ecclesiastes.  I never before had so
clear a sight either of the meaning or the beauties
of it. Neither did I imagine that the several parts
of it were in so exquisite a manner connected together; all tending to prove that grand truth, that
there is no happiness out of God.




328        W[esley his Owzn HistorianL.   [ 777.
Wesley Visits the Poor,
Wednesday, 7ahn. 1 5. I began visiting those of
our society who lived in Bethnal Green hamlets.
Many of them  I found in such poverty as few can
conceive without seeing it. 0 why do not all the rich
that fear God constantly visit the poor! Can they
spend part of their spare time better?  Certainly
not. So they will find in that day when "every
man shall receive his own reward according to his
own labor."  Such another scene I saw the next day
in visiting another part of the society. I have not
found any such distress, no, not in the prison at Newgate. One poor man was just creeping out of his sick
bed to his ragged wife and three children, who were
more than half naked, and the very picture of famine;
when, one bringing in a loaf of bread, they all ran,
seizing upon it, and tore it in pieces in an instant.
Who would not rejoice that there is another world?
Growing into an Honorable Man,
Sunday, yat. 26. I preached again at Allhallows
Church, morning and afternoon. I found great liberty of spirit, and the congregation seemed to be
much affected. How is this? Do I yet please men?
Is the offense of the cross ceased? It seems, after
being scandalous near fifty years, I am  at length
growing into an honorable man!
Thursday, yan. 30. I had a visit from Mr. B-,
grown an old, feeble, decrepit man, hardly able to
face a puff of wind, or creep down stairs!  Such
is the fruit of cooping one's self in a house, of sitting
still day after day!




I777.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       329
Wesley Visits Dr. Dodd,
Saturday, Feb. I 5. At the third message I took up
my cross and went to see*Dr. Dodd, in the Compter.
I was greatly surprised. He seemed, though deeply
affected, yet thoroughly resigned. to the will of God!
Mrs. Dodd likewise behaved with the utmost propriety. I doubt not God will bring good out of this
evil.
Tuesday, Feb. I8. I visited him again, and found
him still in a desirable state of mind; calmlygiving
himself up to whatsoever God should determine
concerning him.
Slave-ships Unemployed.
Friday, April II. I preached at Stockport about
ten, and at Manchester in the evening.
Monday, ApYri 14. I preached about noon at Warrington, and in the evening at Liverpool, where many
large ships are now laid up in the docks which had
been employed for many years in buying or stealing
poor Africans and selling them in America for
slaves. The men-butchers have now nothing to do at
this laudable occupation.  Since the American war
broke out there is no demand for human cattle; so
the men of Africa, as well as Europe, may enjoy
their native liberty.
Laying a ornmer-stone at London.
Monday, April 21, was the day appointed for laying the foundation of the new chapel. The rain befriended us much by keeping away thousands who purposed to be there. But there were still such multitudes
that it was with great difficulty I got through them to




330        WVesley his Own Historian.    [I777.
lay the first stone. Upon this was a plate of brass
(covered with another stone) on which was engraved,
"This was laid by Mr. John Wesley on April I, I777."
Probably this will be seed no more by any human
eye, but will remain there till the earth and the
works thereof are burned up.
Sunday, April 27. The sun breaking out, I snatched
the opportunity of preaching to many thousands in
Moorfields. All were still as night while I showed
how "the son of God was manifested to destroy the
works of the devil."
"Pretty Fools."
Wednesday, May 14. At eleven I preached at
Pocklington, with an eye to the death of that lovely
woman, Mrs. Cross. A gay young gentleman with a
young lady stepped in, stayed five minutes, and went
out again, with as easy an unconcern as if they had
been listening to a ballad-singer. I mentioned to the
congregation the deep folly and ignorance implied in
such behavior.  These pretty fools never thought
that for this very opportunity they are to give an
account before men and angels! In the evening I
preached at York.  I would gladly have rested the
next day, feeling my breast much out of order; but
notice having been given of my preaching at Tadcaster, I set out at nine in the morning. About ten
the chaise broke down. I borrowed a horse, but as
he was none of the easiest, in riding three miles I
was so thoroughly electrified that the pain in my
breast was quite cured. I preached in the evening
at York, on Friday took the diligence, and on Satur —
day afternoon came to London.




I777.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       33I
A Trip to the Isle of Man.
Friday, May 30. I went on to Whitehaven, where I
found a little vessel waiting for me. After preaching
in the evening, I went on board about eight o'clock,
and before eight in the morning landed at Douglas, in
the Isle of Man.
Douglas exceedingly resembles Newlyn in Cornwall, both in its situation, form, and buildings, only
it is much larger, and has a few houses equal to most
in Penzance. As soon as we landed I was challenged
by Mr. Booth, who had seen me in Ireland, and
whose brother has been for many years a member
of the society in Coolylough. A chaise was provided
to carry me to Castletown. I was greatly surprised.
at the country. All the way from Douglas to Castletown it is as pleasant and as well cultivated as most
parts of England, with many gentlemen's -seats.
Castletown a good deal resembles Galway, only it is
not so large. At six I preached near the Castle, I
believe to all the inhabitants of the town.  Two or
three gay young women showed they knew nothing
about religion; all the rest were deeply serious.
Afterward I spent an hour very agreeably at Mrs.
Wood's, the widow of the late Governor. I was much
pressed to stay a little longer at Castletown, but my
time was fixed.
Sunday, Yune I. At six I preached in our own
room, and, to my surprise, saw all the gentlewomen
there.  Young as well as old were ndw deeply
affected, and would fain have had me stayed, were it but
an hour or two; but I was forced to hasten away, in
order to be at Peeltown before the service began. Mr.




332        Wesley his Own Historian.     [ I777.
Corbett said he would gladly have asked me to preach,
but that the Bishop had forbidden him, who had also forbidden all his clergy to admit any Methodist preacher
to the Lord's Supper. But is any clergyman obliged,
either in law or conscience, to obey such a prohibition?  By no means. The will even of the King
does not bind any English subject, unless it be
seconded by express law. How much less the will
of a Bishop?  "But did not you take an oath to
obey him?" No, nor any clergyman in the three
kingdoms. This is a mere vulgar error. Shame that
it should prevail almost universally. As it rained, I
retired after service into a large malt house. Most
of the congregation followed, and devoured the word.
It being far in the afternoon, the whole congregation
stopped in the church-yard, and the word of God
was with power. It was a happy opportunity.
Wesley Visits Dr, Dodd for the Last Time,
Saturday, _rune 2I. I returned to London.
Wednesday, rune 25. I saw Dr. Dodd for the last
time. He was in exactly such a temper as I wished.
He never at any time expressed the least murmuring
or resentment at any one, but entirely and calmly
gave himself up to the will of God. Such a prisoner
I scarce ever saw before, much less such a condemned
malefactor. I should think none could converse with
him without acknowledging that God is with him.
Wesley Completes his Seventy-fourth Year.
Thursday, Yune 26. I read the truly wonderful
performance of Mr. Rowland Hill. I stood amazed!




I777.]      Wesley his Own Historian.'      333
Compared to him, Mr. Toplady himself is a very
civil, fair-spoken gentleman.
Friday, fune 27. I wrote an answer to it, "Not
rendering railing for railing," (I have not so learned
Christ,) but "speaking the truth in love."
Saturday, Yune 28. I have now completed my
seventy-fourth year, and, by the peculiar favor of
God, I find my health and strength, and all my
faculties of body and mind, just the same as they
were at four-and-twenty.
Are the Methodists a Fallen People?
Tuesday, Aug. 5. Our yearly Conference began. I
now particularly inquired (as that report had been
spread far and wide) of every assistant, " Have you
reason to believe, from your own observation, that
the Methodists are a fallen people? Is there a decay
or an increase in the work of God where you have
been? Are the societies in general more dead or
more alive to God than they were some years ago? "
The almost universal answer was, "If we must:' know them by their fruits,' there is no decay in the
work of God among the people in general. The
societies are not dead to God; they are as much alive
as they have been for many years. And we look on
this report as a mere device of Satan to make our
hands hang down."
"But how can this question be decided?  You,
and you, can judge no further than you see. You
cannot judge of one part by another of the people
of London, suppose, by those of Bristol. And none
but myself has an opportunity of seeing them
throughout the three kingdoms."




334        Wesley his Own Historian.      I 777.
But to come to a short issue. In most places the
Methodists are still a poor, despised people, laboring
under reproach and many inconveniences; therefore,
wherever the power of God is not they decrease. By
this, then, you may form a sure judgment. Do the
Methodists in general decrease in number?  Then
they decrease in grace; they are a fallen, or, at least,
a falling people. But they do not decrease in number; they continually increase; therefore they are
not a fallen people. The Conference concluded on
Friday, as it began, in much love. But there was
one jarring string; John Hilton told us he must
withdraw from our connection because he saw the
Methodists were a fallen people. Some would have
reasoned with him, but it was lost labor; so we let
him go in peace.
Dr. Coke Dismissed from his Curacy.
Tuesday, Aug. 19. I went forward to Taunton with
Dr. Coke, who, being dismissed from his curacy, has
bid adieu to his honorable name and determined to
cast in his lot with us. In the evening I endeavored
to guard all who love or fear God against that miserable bigotry which many of our mistaken brethren
are advancing with all their might.
Wesley Visits the Classes in London
Monday, Nov. 3. I began visiting the classes in
London, in which I was fully employed for seven or
eight days; afterward I visited those in the neighboring towns, and found reason to rejoice over them.
Sunday, Nov. I6. I was desired to preach a charity
sermon in St. Margaret's Church, Rood-lane.  In




1777.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        335
the morning I desired my friends not to come; in
the afternoon it was crowded sufficiently, and I
believe many of them felt the word of God sharper
than any two-edged sword.
Wesley Consents to Publish a Ivagazine.
Monday, Vov. 24. I spent the afternoon at Mr.
Blackwell's with the B      of.  His whole
behavior was worthy of a Christian Bishop, easy,
affable, courteous; and yet all his conversation spoke
the dignity which was suitable to his character.
Having been many times desired for near forty years,
to publish a magazine, I at length complied, and now
began to collect materials for it. If it once begin I
incline to think it will not end but with my life.
He Lays a Corner-stone at Bath,
Saturday, Dec. I3. Being strongly urged to lay the
first stone of the house which was going to be built at
Bath, on Sunday, Dec. 14, after preaching at West-street
chapel in the morning, and at St. Paul's, Shadwell, in
the afternoon; I went to Brentford. I preached at six,
and, taking chaise at twelve on Monday, Dec. i5,
easily reached Bath in the afternoon.
Tuesday, Dec. I6. I paid a short visit to Bristol;
preached in the evening, and morning following,
1Wednesday, Dec. I7, and at one laid the foundation
of the new chapel at Bath. The wind was piercing
cold, yet scarce any of the congregation went away
before the end of the sermon. After preaching in
the room in the evening I took chaise, and the next
afternoon reached London. Just at. this time there
was a combination among many of the post-chaise




336         Wesley his Own Historian.   [I777-78.
drivers on the Bath road, especially those that drove
in the night, to deliver their passengers into each
other's hands. One driver stopped at the spot they
had appointed, when another waited to attack the
chaise. In consequence of this many were robbed,
but I had a good Protector still. I have traveled all
roads by day and by night for these forty years, and
never was interrupted yet.
A Good Word for the Local Preachers.
Wednesday, Dec. 31. We concluded the old year
and began the new with prayer and thanksgiving.
Four or five of the Local Preachers assisted me. I
was agreeably surprised, their manner of praying
being so artless and unlabored, and yet rational and
scriptural both as to sense and expression.
Thursday, yan. I, I778. We had a very solemn
opportunity of renewing our covenant with God.
Wesley Writes a Serious Address to the Inhabitants of England.
Tuesday, Feb. 17. I wrote "A Serious Address to
the Inhabitants of England" with regard to the
present state of the nation-So strangely misrepresented both by ignorant and designing men-to
remove, if possible, the apprehensions which have
been so diligently spread, as if it were on the brink
of ruin.
Panic in BristoL
Sunday, March I. I preached at Brentford in the
evening; 3Monday, March 2, at Newbury, and the
next evening at Bath.
Wednesday, March 4. I went on to Bristol. I
found the panic had spread hither also, as if the




1778.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       337
nation were on the brink of ruin.  Strange that
those who love God should be so frightened at
shadows! I can compare this only to the alarm
which spread through the nation in King William's
time that on that very night the Irish Papists were
to cut the throats of all the Protestants in England.
Monday, March 9. On this and the following days
I visited the society, and found a good increase.
This year I myself (which I have seldom done) chose
the preachers for Bristol; and these were plain men,
and likely to do more good than has been done in
one year for these twenty years.
How the Poor Ma's Prayer was Answered.
Monday, May 18. There were two roads to Sligo,
one of which was several miles shorter, but had some
sloughs in it. However, having a good guide, we
chose this. Two sloughs we got over well. On our
approaching the third, seven or eight countrymen
presently ran to help us. One of them carried me
over on his shoulders, others got the horses through,
and some carried the chaise. We then thought the
difficulty was past; but in half an hour we came to
another slough. Being helped over it, I walked on,
leaving Mr. Delap, John Carr, Joseph Bradford, and
Jesse Bugden, with the chaise, which was stuck fast
in the slough. As none of them thought of unhar —
nessing the horses, the traces were soon broke; at
length they fastened ropes to the chaise and to the
stronger horse; and the horse pulling, and the men
thrusting at once, they thrust it through the slough
to the firm land. In an hour or two after we all met
at Ballinacurrah. While I was walking a poor man
22




338        Wesley his Own Historian.    [1778.;
overtook me, who appeared to be in deep distress;
he said he owed his landlord twenty shillings rent,
for which he had turned him and his family out of
doors, and that he had been down with his relations
to beg their help, but they would do nothing. Upon
my giving him a guinea he would needs kneel down
in the road to pray for me, and then cried out,' 0,
I shall have a house! I shall have a house over my
head!"  So, perhaps, God answered that poor man's
prayer by the sticking fast of the chaise in the slough!
Massacre at Sligo,
Tuesday, May I9. In the evening I preached at
Sligo in the old Court-house, an exceeding spacious
building. I know not that ever I saw so large a
congregation here before, nor (considering their
number) so well behaved. Will God revive his work
even in this sink of wickedness, and after so many
deadly stumbling-blocks? Upon inquiry I found
there had been for some time a real revival of religion
here. The congregations have considerably increased,
and the society is nearly doubled. We had in the
evening a larger congregation than before, among
whom were most of the gentry of the town, and all
but one or two young gentlemen (so-called) were remarkably serious and attentive. I now received an
intelligible account of the famous massacre at Sligo.
A little before the Revolution, one Mr. Morris, a
Popish gentleman, invited all the chief Protestants to
an entertainment, at the close of which, on a signal
given, the men he had prepared fell upon them and
left not one of them alive. As soon as King William
prevailed he quitted Sligo.  But venturing thither




1778.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         339.
about twenty years after, supposing no one then
knew him, he was discovered, and used according.to
his deserts.
An Extraordinary Congregation,
Saturday, May 23. I was desired to preach once
more at Coote Hill, which I had not seen for many
years. The use of the Presbyterian meeting-house
being procured, I had a very extraordinary congregation. To many Church people were added Seceders, Arians, Moravians, and what not; however I
went straight forward, insisting that "without holiness no man shall see the Lord."
Giant's Causeway.
Saturday, i7une 6. I was desired to take a ride to
the celebrated Giant's Causeway.  It lies eleven
English miles from Coleraine. When we came to
the edge of a precipice three or four poor boys were
ready to hold our horses and show us the way down.
It being dead low-water we could go anywhere, and
see every thing to the best advantage. It is doubtless the effect of subterraneous fire.  This manifestly appears from many of the stones which composed the pillars that are now fallen down; these
evidently bear the mark of fire, being burned black
on one or the other surface. It appears likewise
from numerous pumice stones scattered among the pillars; just such pillars and pumices are found in every
country which is, or ever was, subject to volcanoes.
Largest Conoregation in Ireland.
Tuesday, zune 9. We rode through a small village,
wherein was a little society.  One desiring me to




340         Wesley his Own Historian.     [1778.
step into a house there, it was filled presently, and
the poor people were all ear while I gave a short
exhortation and spent a few minutes in prayer.  In
the evening, as the Town-hall at Carrickfergus could
not contain the congregation, I preached in the market-house, on "Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole [duty] of man." The
people in general appeared to be more serious, and
the society more earnest than they had been for
many years. Thence we went to Belfast, the largest
town in Ulster, said to contain thirty thousand souls.
The streets are well laid out; are broad, straight, and
well built.  The poor-house stands on an eminence
fronting the main street, and having a beautiful prospect on every side over the whole country; the- old
men, the old women, the male and the female children, are all employed according to their strength;
and all their apartments are airy, sweet, and clean,
equal to any thing of the kind I have seen in England.
I preached in the evening, on one side of the new
church, to far the largest congregation I have seen
in Ireland; but I doubt the bulk of them- were
nearly concerned in my text, "And Gallio cared for
none of these things."
Wesley Seventy-five Years Old.
Sunday, _rune 28. I am this day seventy-five years
old, and I do not find myself, blessed be God! any
weaker than I was at five-and-twenty. This also
hath God wrought! All this week I visited as many
as I could, and endeavored to confirm their love to
each other, and I have not known the society for
many years so united as it is now.




1778.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       34r
A Consummate Enthusiast.
Saturday,  lu/ly 4. A  remarkable piece was put
into my hands, the " Life of Mr. Morsay," and I saw
no reason to alter the judgment which I had formed
of him forty years ago. He was a man of uncommon
understanding, and greatly devoted to God. But he
was a consummate enthusiast.  Not the word of
God, but his own imaginations, which he took for
Divine inspirations, were the sole rule both of his
words and actions.  Hence arose his marvelous
instability, taking such huge strides backward and forward; hence his frequent darkness of soul; for when
he departed from God's word God departed from
him. Upon the whole I do not know that ever I
read a more dangerous writer, one who so wonderfully blends together truth and falsehood, solid piety,
and wild enthusiasm.
Discussions at the Dublin Conferenoe.
Tuesday, july 7. Our little Conference began, at
which about twenty preachers were present. On
Wednesday we heard one of our friends at large upon
the duty of leaving the Church; but, after a full discussion of the point, we all remained firm in our
judgment that it is our duty not to leave the Church
wherein God has blessed us and does bless us
still.
Sunday, yuly 12. After I had several times explained the nature of it, we solemnly renewed our
covenant with God. It was a time never to be forgotten; God poured down upon the assembly "the




342        Wesley his Own Historian.       [i 778.
spirit of grace and supplication;" especially in singing
that verse of the concluding hymn,
"To us the covenant blood apply,
Which takes our sins away;
And register our names on high,
And keep us to that day.
The Largest Conference yet Held,
Sunday, Aug. 2. At one I preached at the foot of
Birstal Hill to the largest congregation that ever was
seen there. It was supposed there were twelve or
fourteen thousand, but there were some thousands
more at Leeds. I think it was the largest congregation that I have seen for many years, except that at
Gwennap in Cornwall.
Tuesday, Aug. 4. Our Conference began; so large
a number of preachers never met at a Conference
before. I preached morning and evening till Thursday
night, then my voice began to fail; so I desired two
of our preachers to supply my place the next day. On
Saturday the Conference ended.
Old Sermons.
Tuesday, Sept. I. I went to Tiverton; I was musing
here on what I heard a good man say long since,
"Once in seven years I burn all my sermons; for it
is a shame if I cannot write better sermons now than
I could seven years ago." Whatever others can do,
I really cannot. I cannot write a better sermon on
the Good Steward than I did seven years ago; I
cannot write a better on the Great Assize than I did
twenty years ago; I cannot write a better on the Use
of Money than I did near thirty years ago; nay, I
know not that I can write a better on the Circum



1778.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       343
cision of the Heart than I did five-and-forty years
ago. Perhaps, indeed, I may have read five or six
hundred books more than I had then, and may know
a little more history or natural philosophy than I did,
but I am not sensible that this has made any essential
addition to my knowledge in divinity. Forty years
ago I knew and preached every Christian doctrine
which I preach now.
Wesley Preaches under a Tree of his Own Planting.
Friday, Sept. 4. I spent some time in the evening,
and an hour in the morning, with the lovely children
at Publow. Such another company of them I never
saw since Miss Bosanquet removed from Leytonstone.
Saturday, Sept. 5. I returned to Bristol.
Sunday, Sept. 6. At eight I preached near the
Drawbridge; at two near'Kingswood school, under
the tree which I planted for the use of the next
generation; and at five near King's Square, to a very
numerous and exceeding serious congregation.
Called Gentlemen by Courtesy.
Tuesday, Sept. 8. In the evening I stood on one
side of the market-place of Frome, and declared to a
very numerous congregation, " His commandments
are not grievous."  They stood as quiet as those at
Bristol, a very few excepted, most of whom were, by
the courtesy of England, called gentlemen. How
much inferior to the keelmen and colliers!
Voltaire and his Physician.
Sept. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, on
meeting the classes, I carefully examined whether
-here was any truth in the assertion that above a




3444        Wesley his Own Historian.     I[778.
hundred in our society were concerned in unlawful
distilling. The result was that I found two persons,
and no more, that were concerned therein. I now
procured a copy of part of Mr. Fletcher's late letter
to Mr. Ireland, which I think it my duty to publish
as a full answer to the lying accounts which have
been published concerning that bad man, " Mr. Voltaire, [who,] finding himself ill, sent for Dr. Tronchin,
first physician to the Duke of Orleans, one of his
converts to infidelity, and said to him,'Sir, I desire
you will save my life; I will give you half my fortune
if you will lengthen out my days only six months; it
not, I shall go to the devil and carry you with me.'"
Wesley Preaches at the Poor-house.
Saturday, Oct. 3. Visiting one at the poor-house,
I was much moved to see such a company of poor,
maimed, halt, and blind, who seemed to have no one
caring for their souls. So I appointed to be there
the next day, and at two o'clock had all that could
get out of bed, young and old, in the great hall. My
heart was greatly enlarged toward them, and many
blessed God for the consolation.
He Opens the New Chapel in City Road
Sunday, Nov. I, was the day appointed for opening the new chapel in the City Road. It is perfectly
neat, but not fine, and contains far more people than
the Foundery; I believe, together with the morning
chapel, as many as the Tabernacle. Many were afraid
that the multitudes crowding from all parts would
have occasioned much disturbance, but they Dwere
happily disappointed; there was none at all; all was




1778.]     WVesley his Own Historian.      345
quietness, decency, and order. I -preached on part of
Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the Temple;
and both in the morning and afternoon (when I
preached on the hundred forty and four thousand
standing with the Lamb on Mount Zion) God was
eminently present in the midst of the congregation.
Wesley Outwalks the Stage.
Wednesday, Nov. 4. I took a view of the old church
at Minster, once a spacious and elegant building. It
stands pleasantly on the top of a hill, and commands
all the country round. We went from thence to
Queensborough, which contains above fifty houses,
and sends two members to Parliament. Surely the
whole Isle of Sheppey is now but a shadow of what it
was once.
Th/ursday, Nov. 5. I returned to Chatham, and on
the following morning set out in the stage-coach for
London. At the end of Stroud I chose to walk up
the hill, leaving the coach to follow me. But it was
in no great haste; it did not overtake me till I had
walked above five miles. I cared not if it had been
ten; the more I walk, the sounder I sleep.
Is the Scandal of the Cross Ceased?
Sunday, Nov. 29. I was desired to preach a charity
sermon in St. Luke's Church, Old-street. I doubt
whether it was ever so crowded before, and the fear
of God seemed to possess the whole audience. In the
afternoon I preached at the new chapel, and at seven
in St. Margaret's, Rood-lane, full as much crowded
as St. Luke's. Is then the scandal of the cross ceased?




346         Wesley his Own Historian.   [I778-79.
"Honest Silas Told."
Sunday, Dec. 20. I buried what was mortal of honest
Silas Told. For many years he attended the malefactors in Newgate without fee or reward; and I suppose no man for this hundred years has been so
successful in that melancholy office. God had given
him peculiar talents for it, and he had amazing success
therein. The greatest part of those whom he attended
died in peace, and many of them in the triumph of
faith
A Christmas-Day's Work.
Friday, Dec. 25, (being Christmas-Day,) our service
began at four, as usual, in the new chapel. I expected
Mr. Richardson to read prayers at West-street chapel,
but he did not come; so I read prayers myself, and
preached, and administered the sacrament to several
hundred people. In the afternoon I preached at the
new chapel, thoroughly filled in- every corner; and in
the evening at St. Sepulchre's, one of the largest
parish churches in London. It was warm enough,
being sufficiently filled, yet I felt no weakness or
weariness, but was stronger after I had preached my
fourth sermon than I was after the first.
Thursday, Dec. 3 I. We concluded the old year with
a solemn watch-night, and began the new with praise
and thanksgiving. We had a violent storm at night;
the roaring of the wind was like loud thunder; it
kept me awake half an hour; I then slept in peace.
Wesley requires Accuracy in Statistics.
Sunday, Feb. 2I, I779. I returned to Norwich and
took an exact account of the society. I wish all our




I 779.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       347
preachers would be accurate in their accounts, and
rather speak under than above the truth. I have
heard again and again of the increase of their society,
and what is the naked truth? Why, I left in it two
hundred and two members, and I find one hundred
and seventy-nine!
Essay on Taste-Criticism,
March. After preaching at Wednesbury, Darlaston,
Dudley, and Wolverhampton, on Wednesday, 24, I
went on to Madeley. In the way I finished a celebrated "Essay on Taste." And is this the treatise
that gained the premium? It is lively and pretty, but
neither deep nor strong.  Scarce any of the terms
are accurately defined; indeed, defining is not this
author's talent. He has not by any means a clear
apprehension; and it is through this capital defect
that he jumbles together true and false propositions
in every chapter and on every page. To this essay
three extracts are subjoined. The first is much to
the purpose. The second is a superficial, empty
thing. Is this a specimen of the great M. D'Alembert? But I was most surprised at the third. What!
is this extracted from the famous Montesquieu? It
has neither strength nor clearness, nor justness of
thought! And is this the writer so admired all over
Europe? He is no more to be compared to Lord
Forbes, or Dr. Beattie, than a mouse to an elephant.
A Just Reflection.
Monday, April 5. I preached at Northwich. I used
to go on from hence to Little Leigh, but since Mr:Barker has gone hence that place knows us no more.




348        -Wesley his Own Historian.      [1779.
I cannot but wonder at the infatuation of:men that
really love and fear God, and yet leave great part
of, if not all, their substance to men that neither love
nor fear him! Surely if I did little good with my
money while living, I would at least do good with it
when I could live no longer.
Smollet s History of England.
Thursday, April 22. I was a little surprised at a
passage in Dr. Smollet's " History of England," vol.
xv, pp. I2I, I22:
"Imposture and fanaticism still hang upon the
skirts of religion. Weak minds were seduced by the
delusions of a superstition styled Methodism, raised
upon the affectation of superior sanctity and pretensions to divine illumination.  Many thousands were
infected with this enthusiasm by the endeavors of a
few obscure preachers such as Whitefield and the two
Wesleys, who found means to lay the whole kingdom
under contribution."
Poor Dr. Smollet! Thus to transmit to all succeeding generations a whole heap of notorious falsehoods! "Imposture and fanaticism!"  Neither one
nor the other had any share in the late revival of
scriptural religion, which is no other than the love of
God and man, gratitude to our Creator, and good-will
to our fellow-creatures.  Is this delusion and superstition? No, it is real wisdom; it is solid virtue.
Does this fanaticism  "hang upon the skirts of
religion?"  Nay, it is the very essence of it.  Does
the Doctor call this enthusiasm? Why? Because
he knows nothing about it. Who told him that these
"obscure preachers" made "pretensions to divine




1779.]       Wesley his Own Historian.         349
illumination?" How often has that silly calumny been
refuted to the satisfaction of all candid men! Hovwever, they "found means to lay the whole kingdom
under contribution."  So does this frontless man,
blind and bold, stumble on without the least shadow
of truth! Meantime, what faith can be given to his
history?  What credit can any man of reason give
to any fact upon his authority?
Swedenborg's Heaven and Hell,
April. In traveling this week I looked over Baron
Swedenborg's "Account of Heaven and Hell." He
was a man of piety, of a strong understanding and
most lively imagination; but he had a violent fever
when he was five-and-fifty years old, which quite
overturned his understanding.   Nor did he ever
recover it; but it continued "majestic, though in
ruins." From that time he was exactly in the state
of that gentleman at Argos,
Qui se credebat miros audire tragados,
In vacuao rTus sessor ilausorque theatro.
Who wondrous tragedies was wont to hear,
Sitting alone in the empty theater.
His words, therefore, from that time were egri
somnnia, the dreams of a disordered imagination; just
as authentic as Quevedo's "Visions of Hell." Of
this work in particular I must observe, that the doctrine contained therein is not only quite unproved,
quite precarious from beginning to end as depending
entirely on the assertion of a single brain-sick man,
but that, in many instances, it is contradictory to




350         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1779-:
Scripture, to reason, and to itself. But, over and
above this, it contains many sentiments that are
essentially and dangerously wrong. Such is that concerning the Trinity, for he roundly affirms God to
be only one person, who was crucified; so that he
revives and openly asserts the long-exploded heresy
of the Sabellians and Patripassians, yea, and that of
the Anthropomorphites, affirming that God constantly appears in heaven in the form of a man. Anti
the worst is he flatly affirms, "None can go to
heaven who believes three persons in the Godhead;"
which is more than the most violent Arian or Socinian
ever affirmed before.
Add to this that his ideas of heaven are low,
groveling, just suiting a Mohammedan paradise,
and his account of it has a natural tendency to sink
our conceptions both of the glory of heaven and of the
inhabitants of it, whom he describes as far inferior
both in holiness and happiness to Gregory Lopez, or
Monsieur De Renty. And his account of hell leaves
nothing terrible in it; for, first, he quenches the unquenchable fire. He assures us there is no fire there;
only he allows that the governor of it, the devil,
sometimes orders the spirits that behave ill to be
"laid on a bed of hot ashes."  And, secondly, he
informs you that all the damned enjoy their favorite
pleasures.  He that delights in filth is to have his
filth, yea, and his harlot too! Now, how dreadful a
tendency must this have in such an age and nation
as this! I wish those pious men, Mr. Clowes and
Mr. Clotworthy, would calmly consider these things
before they usher into the world any more of this
madman's dreams.




1779.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       35 I
Not Suited to the Meridian of Edinburgh.
M1onday, rune I4. I preached again at Arbroath;
Tuesday, yune I5, at Dundee; and Wednesday, Yune
I6, at Edinburgh.
Thursday, Yune 17. I examined the society. In
five years I found five members had been gained!
ninety-nine being increased to a hundred and four.
What then have our preachers been doing all this
time? I. They have preached four evenings in the
week, and on Sunday morning; the other mornings
they have fairly given up. 2. They have taken great
care not to speak too plain lest they should give offense.
3. When Mr. Drackenbury preached the old Methodist doctrine, one of them said, "You must not
preach such doctrine here. The doctrine of perfection is not calculated for the meridian of Edinburgh."
Waiving, then, all other hinderances, is it any wonder
that the work of God has not prospered here?
Stripling Preachers.
Thursday, yu/y I. This was the first of eighteen
or twenty days full as hot as any I remember in
Georgia, and yet the season is remarkably healthy.
I preached in Beverly at noon, and at Hull in the
evening.
Saturday, 7dly 3. I reached Grimsby, and found a
little trial. In this and many other parts of the kingdom, those striplings who call themselves Lady
Huntingdon's preachers have greatly hindered the
work of God. They have neither sense, courage,
nor grace to go and beat up the devil's quarters in any
place where Christ has not been named; but wherever




352           Wesley his Ownt Historian.         [I779.
we have entered as by storm and gathered a few
souls, often at the peril of our lives, they creep in
and, by doubtful disputations, set every one's sword
against his brother. One of these has just crept into
Grimsby, and is striving to divide the poor little flock;
but I hope his labor will be in vain, and they will still
hold " the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace."
Good Alioe Shadford.
Sunday, 5;uly I I. About eight I preached at Misterton, and about one at Overthorpe. But good Alice
Shadford was not there. She was long "a mother
in Israel," a burning and shining light, an unexceptionable instance of perfect love. After spending
near a hundred years on earth, she was some months
since transplanted to paradise.
Legacy of a Minister to his Parishioners
Monday,  iruly 12. I preached at Crowle, and afterward searched the church-yard to find the tomb of
Mr. Ashbourn. We could find nothing of it there.
At length we found a large flat stone in the church,
but the inscription was utterly illegible, the letters
being filled up with dust. However, we made a shift
to pick it out, and then read as follows:
HERE LIES THE BODY OF MR. SOLOMON ASHBOURN.
HE DIED IN 1711,
AND SOLEMNLY BEQUEATHED THE FOLLOWING VERSES TO HIS
PARISHIONERS.
"Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart mnd ears, ye do always
resist the Holy Ghost; as your fathers did so do ye." Acts vii, 5I.
"I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for naught, and
in vain; yet surely my judgment is with the Lord, and my work with
my God." Isa. xlix, 4.




779.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       353
A Dancing-master has the Preference,
Wednesday, _i;ly 21. The house was filled at five,
and we had another solemn opportunity. About
eight, calling at Hinckley, I was desired to preach;
as also at Forcell, ten or twelve miles further. When
I came to Coventry I found notice had been given
for my preaching in the park, but the heavy rain prevented. I sent to the Mayor, desiring the use of
the Town Hall. He refused, but the same day gave
the use of it to a dancing-master. I then went to the
women's market. Many soon gathered together, and
listened with all seriousness. I preached there again
the next morning, Thursday, 22, and again in the
evening. Then I took coach for London. I was
nobly attended; behind the coach were ten convicted
felons, loudly blaspheming and rattling their chains;
by my side sat a man with a loaded blunderbuss, and
another upon the coach.
The last Night at the Foundery.
Sunday, _7ly 25. Both the chapels were full enough.
On MlHondar I retired to Lewisham to write.
Tuesday, Aug. 3. Our Conference began, which
continued and ended in peace and love.
Sunday, Aug. 8. I was at West-street in the morning, and at the new chapel in the evening, when I
took a solemn leave of the affectionate congregation.
This was the last night which I spent at the Foundery. What hath God wrought there in one-andforty years!
In Charge of Angels,
Friday, Aug. I3. As I was going down a steep pair
of stairs my foot slipped and I fell down several steps.
23




354         Wesley his Ozun Historian.    [I779.
Falling on the edge of one of them, it broke the case of
an almanac which was in my pocket all to pieces. The
edge of another stair met my right buckle, and snapped
the steel chape of it in two, but I was not hurt. So
doth our good Master give his angels charge over us!
In the evening I preached at Brecknock, and leaving
my brother there, on Saturday, I4, went forward to
Carmarthen. This evening, and in the morning,
Sunday, 15, the new preaching-house contained the
congregation; but in the afternoon we had, I think,
the largest congregation I ever saw in Wales. I
preached on the Gospel for the day, the story of the
Pharisee and the Publican; and I believe many were
constrained to cry out for the present, "God be
merciful to me a sinner!"
Wesley Preaches to American Prisonera
Saturday, Aug. 21. I went to Pembroke.  Understanding that a large number of American prisoners
were here, in the evening I took my stand over against
the place where they were confined, so that they all
could hear distinctly. Many of them seemed much
affected. 0 that God may set their souls at liberty!
Well Repaid,
Friday, Auzg. 27. I preached at Cardiff about noon,
and at six in the evening. We then went on to Newport, and, setting out early in the morning, reached
Bristol in the afternoon.
Sunday, Aug. 29. I had a very large number of
communicants. It was one of the hottest days I have
known in England. The thermometer rose to eighty
degrees, as high as it usually rises in Jamaica. Being




I779.]      Wesley his Own Historian.      355
desired to visit a dying man on Kingsdown, I had no
time but at two o'clock. The sun shone without a
cloud, so that I had a warm journey. But I was well
repaid, for the poor sinner found peace. At five I
preached to an immense multitude in the Square, and
God comforted many drooping souls.
Make your Will before you Sleep.
Th~ursday, Sept. 23. In the evening one sat behind
me in the pulpit at Bristol who was one of our first
masters at Kingswood. A little after he left the
school he likewise left the society. Riches then
flowed in upon him, with which, having no relations,
Mr. Spencer designed to do much good after his
death. " But God said unto him, thou fool!" Two
hours after he died intestate, and left his money to
be scrambled for! Reader, if you have not done it
already, make your will before you sleep!
Wesley's Prerogative called in Question.
Monday, ZNov. 22. My brother and I set out for
Bath on a very extraordinary occasion. Some time
since Mr. Smyth, a clergyman, whose labors God had
greatly blessed in the north of Ireland, brought his
wife over to Bath, who had been for some time in a
declining state of health. I desired him to preach
every Sunday evening in our chapel while he remained
there. But as soon as I was gone, Mr. M'Nab, one
of our preachers, vehemently opposed that, affirming
it was the common cause of all the lay preachers;
that they were appointed by the Conference, not by
me, and would not suffer the clergy to ride over their
heads, Mr. Smyth in particular, of whom he said all




356         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I779.
manner of evil. Others warmly defended him. Hence
the society was torn in pieces, and thrown into the
utmost confusion.
Tuesday, Nov. 23. I read to the society a paper
which I wrote near twenty years ago on a like occasion.  Herein I observed that "the rules of our
preachers were fixed by me before any Conference
existed," particularly the twelfth: "Above all, you
are to preach when and where I appoint." By
obstinately opposing which rule, Mr. M'Nab has made
all this uproar. In the morning, at a meeting of the
preachers, I informed Mr. M'Nab that, as he did not
agree to our fundamental rule, I could not receive
him as one of our preachers till he was of another
mind.
Dr. Warner's History of Ireland,
Friday, INov. 26. I took coach again, and on Saturday reached London.  In this journey I read Dr.
Warner's History of Ireland, from its first settlement
to the English conquest; and, after calm deliberation,
I make no scruple to pronounce it a mere senseless
romance. I do not believe one leaf of it is true, from
the beginning to the end. I totally reject the authorities on which he builds; I will not take Flagherty's
or Keating's word for a farthing. I doubt not Ireland
was, before the Christian era, full as barbarous as
Scotland or England. Indeed, it appears from their
own accounts that the Irish in general were continually plundering and murdering each other from
the earliest ages to that period; and so they were
ever since, by the account of Dr. Warner himself, till
they were restrained by the English. How then were




I779-80.]   Wesley his Own Historian.       357
they converted by St. Patrick? Cousin-german to
St. George! To what religion? Not to Christianity.
Neither in his age nor the following had they the
least savor of Christianity either in their lives or their
tempers.
The Mansion of Ancient Kings.
Saturday, May 20, I780. I took one more walk
through Holyrood House, the mansion of ancient
kings. But how melancholy an appearance does it
make now! The stately rooms are dirty as stables;
the colors of the tapestry are quite faded; several of
the pictures are cut and defaced. The roof of the
royal chapel is fallen in, and the bones of James the
Fifth, and the once beautiful Lord Darnley, are scattered about like those of sheep or oxen. Such is
human greatness! Is not "a living dog better than
a dead lion?"
Sunday, May 2 I. The rain hindered me from preaching at noon upon the Castle Hill. In the evening
the house was well filled, and I was enabled to speak
strong words. But I am not a preacher for the people of Edinburgh. Hugh Saunderson and Michael
Fenwick are more to their taste.
An Angel Climbing a Ladder.
Wednesday, May 3 I. I went to Mr. Parker's, at Shincliff, near Durham. The congregation being far too
large to get into the house, I stood near his door.  It
seemed as if the whole village were ready to receive
the truth in the love thereof. Perhaps their earnestness may provoke the people of Durham to jealousy.




358         Wesley his: Own Historian.    [I780.
In the afternoon we took a view of the castle at Durham, the residence of the Bishop. The situation is
wonderfully fine, surrounded by the river, and commanding all the country; and many of the apartments
are large and stately, but the furniture is mean beyond
imagination! I know not where I have seen such in
a gentleman's house, or a man of five hundred a year,
except that of the Lord Lieutenant in Dublin. In the
largest chambers the tapestry is quite faded; besides
that, it is coarse and ill-judged. Take but one instance: in Jacob's Vision you see, on the one side, a
little paltry ladder, and an angel climbing it in the
attitude of a chimney sweeper; and, on the other side,
Jacob staring at him from under a large silver-laced
hat!
Wesley Pensioned for Defending the King.
Monday, Yiune 5. About noon I preached at Tockwith, and then went on to York. I was surprised to
find a general faintness here; one proof of which was,
that the morning preaching was given up.
Tuesday, 7zune 6, was the quarterly meeting, the
most numerous I ever saw. At two was the lovefeast, at which several instances of the mighty power
of God were repeated, by which it appears that his
work is still increasing in several parts of the circuit.
An arch news-writer published a paragraph to-day,
probably designed for wit, concerning the large pension which the famous Wesley received for defending
the King. This so increased the congregation in the
evening, that scores were obliged to go away. And
God applied that word to many hearts, " I will not
destroy the city for ten's sake!"




1780.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       359
Wednesday, Yune 7. I preached at Pocklington and
Swinfleet.
Thursday, rune 8. I preached on the green at
Thorne to a listening multitude. Only twvxo or three
were much diverted at the thought of seeing the dead,
small and great, standing before God!
Wesley enters the Seventy-eighth Year of his Age.
Wednesday, EMay 28. I went to Sheffield, but the
house was not ready, so I preached in the Square. I
can hardly think I am entered this day into the
seventy-eighth year of my age. By the blessing of
God I am just the same as when I entered the twentyeighth. This hath God wrought, chiefly by my constant exercise, my rising early, and preaching morning and evening.
The Celebrated Cartoons.,
Sunday, ytuly 23. I preached (after reading prayers)
at ten, at half-hour past two, and in the evening. Very
many heard; I hope some felt what was spoken. We
have sown, O may God give the increase!
Monday, _uly 24. I went on to Bristol. While I
was at Bath I narrowly observed and considered the
celebrated cartoons, the three first in particular.
What a poor designer was one of the finest painters
in the world! I. Here are two men in a boat, each
of them more than half as long as the boat itself.
2. Our Lord, saying to Peter, " Feed my sheep,"
~points to three or four sheep standing by him. 3. While
Peter and John heal the lame man, two naked boys
stand by them. For what? O pity that so fine a
painter should be utterly without common sense!
In the evening I saw one of the greatest curiosities




360        TWesley his Own Historiant.     [1780.
in the vegetable creation, the nightly cereus. About
four in the afternoon the dry stem  began to swell;
about six it gradually opened, and about eight it was
in its full glory. I think the inner part of this flower,
which was snow white, was about five inches diameter;
the yellow rays which surrounded it, I judged, were
in diameter nine or ten inches. About twelve it
began to droop, being covered with a cold sweat; at
four it died away.
The Duke of Dorset's Seat,
Monday, Oct. I6. I went to Tunbridge Wells, and
preached to a serious congregation on Rev. xx, I2.
Tuesday, Oct. I 7. I came back to Sevenoaks, and in
the afternoon walked over to the Duke of Dorset's
seat. The park is the pleasantest I ever saw, the
trees are so elegantly disposed. The house, which is
at least two hundred years old, is immensely large.
It consists of two squares, considerably bigger than
the two quadrangles in Lincoln College. I believe
we were shown above thirty rooms, besides the hall,
the chapels, and three galleries. The pictures are
innumerable; I think four times as many as in the
castle at Blenheim. Into one of the galleries opens
the king's bed-chamber, ornamented above all the
rest. The bed-curtains are cloth-of-gold, and so richly
wrought that it requires some strength to draw them.
The tables, the chairs, the frames of the lookingglasses, are all plated over with silver. The tapestry,
representing the whole history of Nebuchadnezzar, is
as fresh as if newly woven. But the bed-curtains are
exceeding dirty, and look more like copper than gold.
The silver on the tables, chairs, and glass looks as




I780-81.]   WVesley his Own Historian.        361
dull as lead. And, to complete all, King Nebuchadnezzar among the beasts, together with his eagle's
claws, has a large crown upon his head, and is clothed
in scarlet and gold.
Three Services, but not Tired!
Sunday, Feb. 25, I78I. My brother, Mr. Richardson, and Mr. Buckingham being ill, I went through
the service at Spitalfields alone. The congregation
was much larger than usual, but my strength was as
my day, both here, at the new chapel, and afterward at
St. Antholin's Church. The service lasted till near
nine, but I was no more tired than at nine in the
morning.
Wesley Opens the New Chapel at Manchester,
March. After preaching at Congleton, Macclesfield, and Stockport, in my way, on Friday, 30, I
opened the new chapel at Manchester, about the
size of that in London.  The whole congregation
behaved with the utmost seriousness.  I trust much
good will be done in this place.
Sunday, April I. I began reading prayers at ten
o'clock. Our country friends flocked in from all
sides. At the communion was such a sight as I am
persuaded was never seen at Manchester before;
eleven or twelve hundred communicants at once, and
all of them fearing God.
Tzuesday, April 3. I took a solemn leave of our
affectionate friends here, and went on to Bolton. The
society here are true, original Methodists. They are
not conformed to the world, either in its maxims, its
spirit, or its fashions, but are simple followers of the




362         Wesley his Own Historian.      [178.
Lamb; consequently, they increase both in grace
and number.
Just in Time.
Saturday, April 7. At noon I preached at Prestonon-the-Hill, and in the evening at Warrington.
Sunday, April 8. The service was at the usual
hours.  I came just in time to put a stop to a bad
custom which was creeping in here; a few men,
who had fine voices, sang a Psalm which no one
knew, in a tune fit for an opera, wherein three,
four, or five persons sung different words at the
same time! What an insult upon common sense!
What a burlesque upon public worship! No custom can excuse such a mixture of profaneness and
absurdity.
Another Visit to the Isle of Man.
Wednesday, May 30. I embarked on board the
packet-boat for the Isle of Man. We had a dead
calm for many hours; however, we landed at Douglas
on Friday morning.  Both the preachers met me
here, and gave me a comfortable account of the stillincreasing work of God. Before dinner we took a
walk in a garden near the town, wherein any of the
inhabitants of it may walk. It is wonderfully pleasant, yet not so pleasant as the gardens of the nunnery,
(so it is still called,) which are not far from it. These
are delightfully laid out, and yield to few places of
the size in England. At six I preached in the market-place to a large congregation, all of whom, except
a few children and two or three giddy young women,
were seriously attentive




178 I.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        363
Description of the Island and of Methodism,
Thursday, 91uie 7. I met our little body of preachers. They were two-and-twenty in all. I never saw
in England so many stout, well-looking preachers
together.  If their spirit be answerable to their look,
I know not what can stand before them. In the afternoon I rode over to Dawby, and preached to a very
large and very serious congregation.
Friday, Yiune 8. Having now visited the island
round, east, south, north, and west, I was thoroughly
convinced that we have no such circuit as this either
in England, Scotland, or Ireland. It is shut up from
the world, and, having little trade, is visited by scarce
any strangers. Here are no Papists, no Dissenters of
any kind, no Calvinists, no disputers. Here is no
opposition, either from the Governor, (a mild, humane
man,) from the Bishop, (a good man,) or from the
bulk of the clergy. One or two of them did oppose
for a time, but they seem now to understand better;
so that we have now rather too little than too much
reproach; the scandal of the cross being, for the
present, ceased.  The natives are a plain, artless,
simple people; unpolished, that is, unpolluted; few
of them are rich or genteel, the far greater part
moderately poor, and most of the strangers that settle
among them are men that have seen affliction. The
Local Preachers are men of faith and love, knit
together in one mind and one judgment.  They
speak either Manx or English, and follow a regular
plan, which the assistant gives them monthly. The isle
is supposed to have thirty thousand inhabitants.
Allowing half of them to be adults, and our societies




364         Wesley his Own Historian.        [178f.
to contain one-or-two-and-twenty hundred members,
what a fair proportion is this! What has been seen
like this in any part either of Great Britain or Ireland?
Wesley Enters his Seventy-ninth Year.
Thursday, yane 28. I preached at eleven, in the
main street at Selby, to a large and quiet congregation, and in the evening at Thorne.  This day I
enter into my seventy-ninth year, and, by the grace
of God, I feel no more of the infirmities of old age
than I did at twenty-nine.
Friday, Muize 29. I preached at Crowle and at Epworh. I have now preached thrice a day for seven
days following, but it is just the same as if it had.been
but once.
Dr. Robertson's History of America.
7u/ly 6. To-day I finished the second volume of Dr.
Robertson's "History of America." His language
is always clear and strong, and frequently elegant;
and I suppose his history is preferable to any history
of America which has appeared in the English
tongue. But I cannot admire, first, his intolerable
prolixity in this history, as well as his " History of
Charles the Fifth."  He promises eight books of the
History of America, and fills four of them with critical dissertations. True, the dissertations are sensible,
but they have lost their way-they are not history,
they are swelled beyond all proportion, doubtless for
the benefit of the author and the book-seller rather than
the reader. I cannot admire, secondly, a Christian
divine writing a history with so very little of Christianity in it.  Nay, he seems studiously to avoid saying any thing which might imply that he believes




178I.]'Vesley his Ozen Historian.            365
the Bible. I can still less admire, thirdly, his speaking so honorably of a professed Infidel; yea, and
referring to his masterpiece of Infidelity, " Sketches
of the History of Man," as artful, as unfair, as disingenuous a book as even Toland's "Nazarenus."
Least of all can I admire, fourthly, his copying after
Dr. Hawkesworth, (who once professed better things,)
in totally excluding the Creator from governing the
world.  Was it not enough never to mention the
providence of God, where there was the fairest occasion, without saying expressly, "The fortune of
Certiz," or "chance," did thus or thus! So far as fortune or chance governs the world God has no place
in it.
The poor American, though not pretending to be
a Christian, knew better than this.  When the Indian
was asked, " Why do you think the beloved ones
take care of you?" he answered, "When I was in
the battle the bullet went on this side, and on that
side, and this man died, and that man died, and I am
alive! So I know the beloved ones take care of me."
It is true, the doctrinc> of a particular providence (and
any but a particular providence is no providence at
all) is absolutely out of fashion in England, and a
prudent author might write this to gain the favor of
his gentle readers. Yet I will not say this is real
prudence, because he may lose hereby more than he
gains, as the majority, even of Britons, to this day,
retain some sort of respect for the Bible.
Mr. Fletcher and Dr. Ooke present at the Leeds Conference.
MoInday, Aug. 6. I desired Mr. Fletcher, Dr. Coke,
and four more of our brethren, to meet every even



366         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I78I.
ing, that we might consult together on any difficulty
that occurred.  On Tuesday our Conference began,
at which were present about seventy preachers, whom
I had severally invited to come and assist me with
their advice in carrying on the great work of God.
TWednesday, Azg. 8. I desired Mr. Fletcher to
preach. I do not wonder he should be so popular,
not only because he preaches with all his might, but
because the power of God attends both his preaching
and prayer.  On Monday and Tuesday we finished
the remaining business of the Conference, and ended
it with solemn prayer and thanksgiving.
Wesley's Ne Plus Ultra,
Sunday, Sept. 5. About five in the evening I
preached at Gwennap. I believe two-or-three-andtwenty thousand were present, and I believe God
enabled me so to speak that even those who stood
furthest off could hear distinctly. I think this is my
neplus ultra. [Utmost limit.] I shall scarce see a
larger congregation till we meet in the air.
"I can plan, but who will execute?"
Friday, Sept. 8. I went over to Kingswood, and
made a particular inquiry into the management of
the school. I found some of the rules had not been
observed at all, particularly that of rising in the morning. Surely Satan has a peculiar spite at this school!
What trouble has it cost me for above these thirty
years! I can plan, but who will execute?  I know
not; God help me!
Sunday, Sept. 9. In the calm, sunshiny evening I
preached near King's Square. I know nothing more




1781-82.]   Wesley his Own Historian.        367
solemn than such a congregation praising God with
one heart and one voice. Surely they who talk
of the indecency of field-preaching never saw such
a sight as this.
Wesley Preaches to Condemned Criminals.
Thursday, Oct. 4. I was importuned to preach the
condemned sermon at Bristol. I did so, though with
little hope of doing good, the criminals being eminently impenitent. Yet they were, for the present,
melted into tears, and they were not out of God's
reach.
A Young People's Prayer-Meeting.
Monday, Nov. 5. I began visiting the classes, and
found a considerable increase in the society. This I
impute chiefly to a small company of young persons
who have kept a prayer-meeting at five every morning. In the following week I visited most of the
country societies, and found them increasing.
A Successful Organizer.
March, I782. Both Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher complained that, after all the pains they had taken,
they could not prevail on the people to join in
society, no, not even to meet in a class. Resolving
to try, I preached to a crowded audience on "I am
not ashamed of the -Gospel of Christ." I followed
the blow in the afternoon by strongly applying those
words, "Awake, thou that sleepest," and then enforcing the necessity of Christian fellowship on all who
desired either to awake or keep awake. I then
desired those that were willing to join together for
this purpose, to call upon Mr. Fletcher and me after




368        [Wesley his Own Historian.      [1782.
service. Ninety-four or ninety-five persons did soabout as many men as women. We explained to
them the nature of a Christian society, and they
willingly joined therein.
" If decreed they cannot help it,"
Thuirsday, March 28. Coming to Congleton, I found
the Calvinists were just breaking in, and striving to
make havoc of the flock. Is this brotherly love? Is
this doing as we would be done to? No more than
robbing on the highway. But if it is decreed, they
cannot help it, so we cannot blame them.
Work of God at Epworth.
Friday, May I o. I preached at Sheffield; Saturday,
II, at noon, at Doncaster, and in the evening at
Epworth. I found the accounts I had received of
the work of God here were not at all exaggerated.
Here is a little country town containing a little more
than eight or nine hundred grown people, and there
has been such a work among them as we have not
seen in so short a time either at Leeds, Bristol, or
London.
Sunday, May I2. About eight I preached at Misterton; about one at Overthorpe.  Many of the
Epworth children were there, and their spirit spread
to all around them. But the huge congregation was
in the market-place at Epworth, and the Lord in the
midst of them. The love-feast which followed exceeded all. I never knew such a one here before.
As soon as one had done speaking another began.
Several of them were children, but they spoke with
the wisdom of the aged though with the fire of




1782.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       369
youth. So out of the mouth of babes and sucklings
did God perfect praise.
Monday, Mlay 13. I preached at Thorne. Never
did I see such a congregation here before.  The
flame of Epworth had spread hither also. In seven
weeks fifty persons have found peace with God.
Tuesday, May 14. Some years ago four factories
for spinning and weaving were set up at Epworth.
In these a large number of young women and boys
and girls were employed. The whole conversation
of these was profane and loose to the last degree.
But some of these stumbling in at the prayer-meeting were suddenly cut to the heart. These never
rested till they had gained their companions. The
whole scene was changed. In three of the factories
no more lewdness or profaneness were found, for
God had put a new song in their mouth, and blasphemies were turned to praise. Those three I visited
to-day, and found religion had taken deep root in
them. No trifling word was heard among them, and
they watch over each other in love. I found it exceeding good to be there, and we rejoiced together in
the God of our salvation.
T ady Maxwell and her Poor Children.
Friday, May 3I. As I lodged with Lady Maxwell
at Saughton Hall, (a good old mansion-house three
miles from Edinburgh,) she desired me to give a
short discourse to a few of her poor neighbors. I did
so at four in the afternoon, on the story of Dives and
Lazarus. About seven I preached in our house at
Edinburgh, and fully delivered my own soul.
Saturday, gfune I. I spent a little time with forty
24




370        TWesley his Own Historian.      [I782.
poor children, whom Lady Maxwell keeps at school.
They are swiftly brought forward in reading and
writing, and learn the principles of religion. But I
observe in them all the ambitiosapazpertas.  [Ostentatious poverty.] Be they ever so poor, they must
have a scrap of finery. Many of them have not a
shoe to their foot; but the girl in rags is not without her ruffles.
Scotch Hearers.
Sunday, Yune 2. Mr. Collins intended to have
preached on the Castle Hill at twelve o'olock, but
the dull minister kept us in the kirk till past one. At
six the house was well filled, and I did not shun to
declare the whole counsel of God. I almost wonder
at myself. I seldom speak any where so roughly as
in Scotland. And yet most of the people hear and
hear, and are just what they were before.
A Comfortable Fall.
Saturday, Yine 15. As I was coming down stairs
the carpet slipped from under my feet, which, I know
not how, turned me round, and pitched me back with
my head foremost for six or seven stairs.  It was
impossible to recover myself till I came to the bottom. My head rebounded once or twice from the edge
of the stone stairs.  But it felt to me exactly as if I
had fallen on a cushion or pillow. Mr. Douglas ran
out sufficiently affrighted. But he needed not. For
I rose as well as ever, having received no damage but
the loss of a little skin from one or two of my fingers.
Doth not God give his angels charge over us to keep
us in all our ways?




1782.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        371
Wesley Enters his Eightieth Year.
Wednesday, June 26. I preached  at Thirsk;
Thursday, 27, at York.
Friday, Yune 28. I entered into my eightieth year,
but, blessed be God! my time is not " labor and sorrow."
I find no more pain or bodily infirmities than at fiveand-twenty. This I still impute, I. To the power of
God fitting me for what he calls me to. 2. To my
still traveling four or five thousand miles a year.
3. To my sleeping, night or day, whenever I want it.
4. To my rising at a set hour. And, 5. To my constant preaching, particularly in the morning.
Saturday, June 29. I went on to Leeds, and, after
preaching, met the select society, consisting of about
sixty members, most of whom can testify that "the
blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth from all sin."
Dines with the Bishop of Exeter.
Thursday, Aug. 15. I set out for the west; preached
at Taunton in the evening; Friday noon, at Collumpton, and in the evening at Exeter. Here poor Hugh
Saunderson has pitched his standard, and declared
open war. Part of the society have joined him; the
rest go on their way quietly to make their calling and
election sure.
Sunday, Aug. I8. I was much pleased with the
decent behavior of the whole congregation at the
cathedral, as also with the solemn music at the postcommunion, one of the finest compositions I ever
heard. The Bishop inviting me to dinner, I could
not but observe, I. The lovely situation of the palace,
covered with trees, and as rural and retired as if it
was quite in the country. 2. The plainness of the




372         Wesley his Own Historian.     [E1782.
furniture, not costly or showy, but just fit for a Christian bishop. 3. The dinner sufficient, but not redundant-plain and good, but not delicate. 4. The
propriety of the company-five clergymen and four
of the aldermen; and, 5. The genuine, unaffected
courtesy of the Bishop, who, I hope, will be a blessing to his whole diocese.
Wesley Rides in Haste to Visit the Dying Rector.
Monday, Sept. 2. I went on to Port Isaac.
Tuesday, Sept. 3. I preached in the street at Camelford. Being informed here that my old friend, Mr.
Thompson, Rector of St. Gennis, was near death,
and had expressed a particular desire to see me, I
judged no time was to be lost. So, borrowing the
best horse I could find, I set out and rode as fast as
I could.
I found Mr. Thompson just alive, but quite sensible. It seemed to me as if none in the house but
himself was very glad to see me. He had many
doubts concerning his final state, and rather feared
than desired to die; so that my whole business was
to comfort him, and to increase and confirm his confidence in God. He desired me to administer the
Lord's Supper, which I willingly did, and left him
much happier than I found him, calmly waiting till
his change should come.
Labors to Strengthen a Feeble Society,
Monday, Nov. 4. At five in the morning the congregation was exceeding large. That in the evening
seemed so deeply affected that I hope Norwich will
again lift up its head. At nine we took coach, and




I782-83.]  Wkesley his Own Historian.        373
before eleven on Tuesday, Nov. 4, reached Colchester.
In order to strengthen this poor feeble society I
stayed with them till Friday, preaching morning and
evening, and visiting in the day as many as I could,
sick or well. I divided the classes anew, which had
been strangely and irregularly jumbled together,
appointed stewards, regulated temporal as well as
spiritual things, and left them in a better way than
they had been for several years.
Monday, Nov. 14, and the following days, I visited
the societies in and about London.
Wesley's Salary.
Friday, Feb. 2I, I783. At our yearly meeting for
that purpose we examined our yearly accounts, and
found the money received (just answering the expense) was upward of three thousand pounds a year,
but that is nothing to me; what I receive of it yearly
is neither more nor less than thirty pounds.
Description of Rotterdam.
Saturday, Ymne I4. I had  much conversation
with the two English ministers, sensible, well-bred,
serious men. These, as well as Mr. Loyal, were very
willing I should preach in their churches, but they
thought it would be best for me to preach in the
cathedral church. By our conversing freely together
many prejudices were removed, and all our hearts
seemed to be united together.
In. the evening we again took a walk round the
town, and I observed: I. Many of the houses are
higher than most in Edinburgh. It is true they have
not so many stories, but each story is far loftier.




374         Wesley his Own Historian.       [1783.
2. The streets, the outside and inside of their houses
in every part, doors, windows, well-staircases, furniture, even floors, are kept so nicely clean that you
cannot find a speck of dirt. 3. There is such a grandeur and elegance in the fronts of the large houses as
I never saw elsewhere, and such a profusion of marble
within, particularly in their lower floors and staircases, as I wonder other nations do not imitate.
4. The women and children (which I least of all
expected) were in general the most beautiful I ever
saw. They were surprisingly fair, and had an inexpressible air of innocence in their countenance.
5. This was wonderfully set off by their dress, which
was simplex munditiis, plain and neat in the highest
degree. 6. It has lately been observed that growing
vegetables greatly resist putridity, so there is a use
in their numerous rows of trees which was not
thought of at first. The elms balance the canals,
preventing the putrefaction which those otherwise
might produce. One little circumstance I observed,
which I suppose is peculiar to Holland: To most
chamber windows a looking-glass is placed on the
outside of the sash, so as to show the whole street
with all the passengers. There is something very
pleasing in these moving pictures. Are they found
in no other country?
Wesley's Estimate of the Hollanders,
Wednesday, Yune 25. We took boat for Haerlem.
The great church here is a noble structure, equaled
by few cathedrals in England either in length,
breadth, or height; the organ is the largest I ever
saw, and is said to be the finest in Europe. Hence




1783.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         375
we went to Mr. Van K's, whose wife was convinced of sin and justified by reading Mr. Whitefield's
sermons.  Here we were as at home.  Before dinner
we took a walk in Haerlem Wood. It adjoins to the
town, and is cut out in many shady walks, with lovely
vistas shooting out every way. The walk from the
Hague to Scheveling is pleasant, those near Amsterdam more so, but these exceed them all. We returned in the afternoon to Amsterdam, and in the evenign took leave of as many of our friends as we could.
How entirely were we mistaken in the Hollanders,
supposing them to be of a cold, phlegmatic, unfriendly
temper! I have not met with a more warmly affectionate people in all Europe! No, not in Ireland!
Wesley Reaches Fourscore Years!
Saturday, _yune 28. I have this day lived fourscore
years, and, by the mercy of God, my eyes are not
waxed dim; and what little strength of body or
mind I had thirty years since, just the same I have
now. God grant I may never live to be useless!
Rather may I
My body with my charge lay down,
And cease at once to work and live.
Pleased with his Visit to Holland.
Tuesday, 7uly I. I called on as many as I could
of my friends, and we parted with much affection.
We then hired a yacht, which brought us to Helvoetsluys about eleven the next day. At two we went
on board, but the wind turning against us we did not
reach Harwich till about nine on Friday morning.
After a little rest we procured a carriage, and reached




376        Wesley his Owun Historian.    [1783.
London about eleven at night. I can by no means
regret either the trouble or expense which attended
this little journey. It opened me a way into, as it
were, a new world, where the land, the buildings, the
people, the customs, were all such as I had never
seen before. But, as those with whom I conversed
were of the same spirit with my friends in England,
I was as much at home in Utrecht and Amsterdam
as in Bristol and London.
Wesley Unwilling to be Idle.
Tuesday, Aug. 5. Early in the morning I was seized
with a most impetuous flux. In a few hours it was
joined by a violent and almost continual cramp; first
in my feet, legs, thighs, then in my side and my
throat. The case being judged extreme, a grain and
a half of opium was given me in three doses. This
speedily stopped the cramp, but at the same time
took away my speech, hearing, and power of motion,
and locked me up from head to foot, so that I lay a
mere log. I then sent for Dr. Drummond, who from
that time attended me twice a day. For some days
I was worse and worse, till on Friday I was removed
to Mr. Castleman's. Still my head was not affected,
and I had no pain, although in a continual fever. But
I continued slowly to recover, so that I could read or
write an hour or two at a time. On WIednzesday, Aug.
12, I took a vomit, which almost shook me to pieces,
but, however, did me good.
Sunday, Aug. I7, and all the following week, my
fever gradually abated, but I had a continual thirst,
and little or no increase of strength; nevertheless,
being unwilling to be idle, on Saturday, Aug. 23, I




1783.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        377
spent an hour with the penitents; and, finding myself no worse, on Sunzday, Aug-. 24, I preached at the
new  room  morning and afternoon.   Finding my
strength was now in some measure restored, I determined to delay no longer, but, setting out on J/Ionday,
Aug. 25, reached Gloucester in the afternoon; in the
evening I preached in the Town-hall, I believe not
in vain.
Tuesday, AuSg. 26. I went on to Worcester, where
many young people are just setting out in the ways
of God. I joined fifteen of them this afternoon to
the society, all of them, I believe, athirst for salvation.
Wednesday, Aug. 27. I preached at Birmingham,
and had a comfortable season.
Thursday, Auzg. 28. I paid another visit to the
amiable family at Hilton Hall.
Friday, Azg. 29. About ten I preached for the first
time at Stafford to a large and deeply attentive congregation. It is now the day of small things here,
but the grain of mustard-seed may grow up into
a great tree.
We.ley Solicits and Distributes Relief to the Poor.
Saturday, Sept. 13, I reached Bristol. I had likewise good reward for my labor, in the recovery of my
health by a journey of five or six hundred miles. On
Wednesday, Sept. 17, and the two following days, I
visited several of the country societies, and found
most of them not only increasing in number, but in
the knowledge and love of God.
Friday, Sept. 26. Observing the deep poverty of
many of our brethren, I determined to do what I




378         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I783.
could for their relief. I spoke severally to some that
were in good circumstances, and received about forty
pounds. Next I inquired who were in the most
pressing want, and visited them at their own houses.
I was surprised to find no murmuring spirits among
them, but many that were truly happy in God, and
all of them appeared to be exceeding thankful for the
scanty relief which they received.
Sunday, Sept. 28. It being a fair day, I snatched
the opportunity of preaching abroad to twice or thrice
as many as the room would have contained.
Wednesday, Oct. I. I preached at Bath to such a
congregation as I have not seen there of a long season. All my leisure hours this week I employed in
visiting the remaining poor and begging for them.
Having collected about fifty pounds more, I was
enabled to relieve most of those that were in pressing
distress.
Captain Webb's Path Luminous,
Monday, Oct. 6. Leaving the society in a more
prosperous way than it had been for several years, I
preached in the Devizes about noon, and at Sarum
in the evening. Captain Webb lately kindled a flame
here, and it is not yet gone out. Several persons were
still rejoicing in God, and the people in general were
much quickened.
Tuesday, Oct. 7. I found Captain Webb's preaching
in the street at Winchester had been blessed greatly.
Many were more or less convinced of sin, and several
had found peace with God. I never saw the preaching-house so crowded before with serious and attentive hearers. So was that at Portsmouth also.




I783-84.]   Wesley his Own Historian.         379
Wesley Visits the Isle of Wight.
Wednesday, Oct. 8. We took a wherry for the Isle
of Wight. Before we were half over the sea rose,
and the water washed over us. However, we got safe
to Watton Bridge, and then walked on to Newport.
There is much life among the people here, and they
walk'worthy of their profession.
Thursday, Oct. 9. I went to Newtown, (two miles
from Newport,) supposed to be the oldest town in
the isle, but its glory is past! The church lies in
ruins, and the town has scarce six houses remaining.
However, the preaching-house was thoroughly filled,
and the people appeared to be all of one rank-none
rich and none extremely poor, but all were extremely
serious and attentive.
Wesley's Weight.
[Wednesday, Nov. I9. I came once more to the lovely
family at Shoreham.  A little longer that venerable
old man is permitted to remain here that the flock
may not be scattered. When I was at Sevenoaks I
made an odd remark.  In the year I769 I weighed a
hundred and twenty-two pounds. In the year 1783
I weighed not a pound more or less. I doubt whether
such another instance is to be found in Great
Britain.
Wesley Attaches great importance to Morning Preaching.
Monday, March I 5,  1784. Leaving Bristol after preaching at five, in the evening I preached at Stroud, where,
to my surprise, I found the morning preaching was
given up, as also in the neighboring places. If this
be the case while I am alive, what must it be when




380        WVesley his Own Historian.    [1784.
I am gone? Give up this, and Methodism too will
degenerate into a mere sect, only distinguished by
some opinions and modes of worship.
Wesley Walks Twelve Miles without fatigue.
Monday, May Io. I set out for Inverness. I had
sent Mr. M'Allum  before, on George Whitefield's
horse, to give notice of my coming. Hereby I was
obliged to take both George and Mrs. M'Allum with
me in my chaise. To ease the horses we walked
forward from Nairn, ordering Richard to follow us as
soon as they were fed; he did so, but there were two
roads.  So, as we took one and he the other, we
walked about twelve miles and a half of the way
through heavy rain. We then found Richard waiting
for us at a little ale-house, and drove on to Inverness.
But, blessed be God! I was no more tired than when
I set out from Nairn.  I preached at seven to a far
larger congregation than I had seen here since I
preached in the kirk. And surely the labor was not
in vain, for God sent a message to many hearts.
Hugh Blair.
Saturday, May 15. We set out early, and dined at
Aberdeen. On the road I read Ewen Cameron's
Translation of Fingal. I think he has proved the
authenticity of it beyond all reasonable contradiction;
but what a poet was Ossian!  Little inferior to
either Homer and Virgil; in some respects superior
to both. And what a hero was Fingal! Far more
humane than Hector himself, whom we cannot excuse
for murdering one that lay upon the ground; and
with whom Achilles, or even pious /Eneas, is not




1784.]     TWesley his Own Historian.       381
worthy to be named.  But who is this excellent
translator, Ewen Cameron? Is not his other name
Hugh Blair?
Another Interview with Lady Maxwell,
Saturday, May 22. I had some close conversation
with L. M, who appeared to be clearly saved
from sin, although exceedingly depressed by the
tottering tenement of clay. About noon I spent an
hour with her poor scholars, forty of whom she has
provided with a serious master, who takes pains to
instruct them in the principles of religion as well as
in reading and writing. A famous actress, just come
down from London, which, for the honor of Scotland,
just during the sitting of the Assembly, stole away
a great part of the congregation to-night. How much
wiser are these Scots than their forefathers!
Wesley Surrounded by Praying Children,
Tuesday, Jfune 8. I came to Stockton-upon-Tees.
Here I found an uncommon work of God among the
children.  Many of them from six to fourteen were
under serious impressions, and earnestly desirous to
save their souls. There were upward of sixty who
constantly came to be examined, and appeared to be
greatly awakened.  I preached at noon on "The
kingdom of heaven is at hand," and the people
seemed to feel every word. As soon as I caine down
from the desk I was inclosed by a body of children,
one of whom and another sank down upon their
knees until they were all kneeling, so I kneeled
down myself and began praying for them. Abundance of people ran back into the house. The fire




382        WkVesley his Own Historian.    [1784.
kindled and ran from heart to heart, till few, if any,
were unaffected.  Is not this a new thing in the
earth? God begins his work in children. Thus it
has been also in Cornwall, Manchester, and Epworth.
Thus the flame spreads to those of riper years, till at
length they all know him, and praise him from the
least unto the greatest.
Wesley Enters his Eighty-second Year!
Friday, Yuune 28. To-day I entered on my eightysecond year, and found myself just as strong to labor,
and as fit for any exercise of body or mind, as I was
forty years ago. I do not impute this to second
causes, but to the sovereign Lord of all. It is he
who bids the sun of life stand still, so long as it
pleaseth him. I am as strong at eighty-one as I was
at twenty-one, but abundantly more healthy, being a
stranger to the headache, toothache, and other bodily
disorders which attended me in my youth. We can
only say, " The Lord reigneth!"  While we live let
us live to him!
Preaches Three Times a Day.
Friday, Yuily 9. I preached at Huddersfield in- the
morning, at Longwood House at noon, and in the
evening at Halifax.
Sunday, SAdy I I. I preached in the morning at
Greetland House; at one, and in the evening, at
Halifax. The house would in nowise contain the
people; yet the wind was so high that I could not
preach abroad.
Monday, _i7y I2. Mr. Sutcliffe read prayers, and
I preached at Heptonstall, where many poor souls




1784.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       383
were refreshed. Between one and two I preached in
Todmorden Church, and at five in our own preaching-house, boldly situated on the steep ascent of a
tall mountain.
8unday-schools springing up Every-where.
Thursday, tiune I5. I retired to Otley, and rested
two days.
Sunday, Y7zly I8. I preached morning and afternoon in Bingley Church, but it would not near contain the congregation.  Before service I stepped
into the Sunday-school, which contains two hundred
and forty children, taught every Sunday by several
masters, and superintended by the curate. So many
children in one parish are restrained from open sin,
and taught a little good manners, at least, as well as
to read the Bible. I find these schools springing up
wherever I go. Perhaps God may have a deeper end
therein than men are aware of.  Who knows but
some of these schools may become nurseries for
Christians?
Wesley Appoints Preachers to America.
Saturday, Aug. 28. Being informed the boat would
pass at eight, we hastened to the New Passage, but
we were time enough, for it did not set out till past
six in the evening. However, we got into the boat
about seven, and before nine reached Bristol.
Tuesday, Azg. 3I. Dr. Coke, Mr. Whatcoat, and
Mr. Vasey came down from London, in order to
embark for America.
WIednesday, Sept. I. Being now clear in my own
mind, I took a step which I had long weighed in my




384         Wesley his Own Historian.     [ 1784.
mind, and appointed Mr. Whatcoat and Mr. Vasey to
go and serve the desolate sheep in America.
Thursday, Sept. 2. I added to them  three more,
which I verily believe will be much to the glory of
God.
Wesley Preaches under Trees he had Planted Forty Years before,
Sunday, Sept. 12. Dr. Coke read prayers and I
preached, in the new room. Afterward I hastened
to Kingswood; and preached under the shade of that
double row of trees which I planted about forty years
ago. How little did any one think then that they
would answer such an intention! The sun shone as
hot as it used to do even in Georgia; but his rays
could not pierce our canopy, and our Lord, meantime, shone upon many souls, and refreshed them
that were weary.
Wesley Visits Newgate Felons.
Monday, Nov. 8. This week I visited the societies
near London; a very heavy, but necessary work.
Thursday, Nov. I8. I visited two persons in Newgate who were under sentence of death.  They
seemed to be in an excellent temper, calmly resigned
to the will of God. But how much stress can be
reasonably laid on such impressions it is hard to say;
so often have I known them to vanish away as soon
as ever the expectation of death was removed.
Burglars Unsuccessful.
Saturday, Nov. 20. At three in the morning two
or three men broke into our house through the
kitchen window. Thence they came up into the




1784.]     WEesley his Own Historian.        385
parlor and broke open Mr. Moore's bureau, where
they found two or three pounds. The night before I
had prevented his leaving there seventy pounds
which he had just received. They next broke open
the cupboard, and took away some silver spoons.
Just at this time the alarum, which Mr. Moore, by
mistake, had set for half past three, (instead of
four,) went off, as it usually did, with a thundering
noise. At this the thieves ran away with all speed,
though their work was not half done, and the whole
damage which we sustained scarce amounted to six
pounds.
An Audience of Forty-seven Persons under Sentence of Death.
Sunday, Dec. 26. I preached the condemned criminals' sermon in Newgate. Forty-seven were under
sentence of death. While they were coming in there
was something very awful in the clink of their chains.
But no sound was heard, either from them or the
crowded audience, after the text was named, " There
is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more
than over ninety and nine just persons that need not
repentance.' The power of the Lord was eminently
present, and most of the prisoners were in tears. A
few days after twenty of them died at once, five of
whom died in peace. I could not but greatly approve
of the spirit and behavior of Mr. Villette, the ordinary; and I rejoiced to hear that it was the same on
all similar occasions.
Friday, Dec. 31. We had a solemn watch-night,
and ushered in the new year with the voice of praise
and thanksgiving.
25




386         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I785.
Five Hard Days' Work for the Poor.
Saturday, _7an. I, I785. Whether this be the last
or no, may it be the best year of my life.
Sunday, Yan. 2. A larger number of people were
present this evening at the renewal of our covenant
with God than was ever seen before on the occasion.
Tuesday, ian. 4. At this season we usually distribute coals and bread among the poor of the society.
But I now considered they wanted clothes as well as
food.  So on this and the four following days I
walked through the town, and begged two hundred
pounds, in order to clothe them that needed it most.
But it was hard work, as most of the streets were
filled with melting snow, which often lay ankle deep,
so that my feet were steeped in snow-water nearly
from morning till evening. I held it out pretty well
till Saturday evening, but I was laid up with a violent
flux, which increased every hour, till, at six in the
morning, Dr. Whitehead called upon me.  His first
draught made me quite easy, and three or four more
perfected the cure.  If he lives some years, I expect
he will be one of the most eminent physicians in
E arope.
The House of Lords.
Tuesday, yan. 25. I spent two or three hours in the
House of Lords. I had frequently heard that this
was the most venerable assembly in England. But
how was I disappointed! What is a lord but a sinner, born to die!
The Grain of Mustard-seed.
March. I was now considering how strangely the
grain of mustard-seed, planted about fifty years ago,




1785.]      Wesley his Ozewn Hzstorian.      387
has grown up. It has spread through all Great
Britain and Ireland, the Isle of Wight and the Isle
of Man, then to America, from the Leeward Islands,
through the whole continent into Canada and Newfoundland.  And the societies in all these parts
walk by one rule, knowing religion is holy tempers,
and striving to worship God not in form only, but
likewise "in spirit and in truth."
State of the Dublin Society.
April. On Tuesday and the three following days I
examined the society. I never found it in such a state
before; many of them rejoiced in God their Saviour,
and were as plain in their apparel, both men and
women, as those in Bristol and London.  Many, I
verily believe, love God with all their hearts, and the
number of these increase daily. The number of the
whole society is seven hundred and forty-seven.
Above three hundred of these have been added in
a few months-a new and unexpected thing! In
various places, indeed, we have frequently felt
The o'erwhelming power of saving grace,
which acted almost irresistibly.  But such a shower
of grace never continued long, and afterward men
might resist the Holy Ghost as before. When the
general ferment subsides, every one that partook of
it has his trial for life, and the higher the flood the
lower will be the ebb; yea, the more swiftly it rose
the more swiftly it falls, so that if we see this here
we should not be discouraged. We should only use
all diligence to encourage as many as possible to
press forward in spite of all the refluent tide.  Now,
especially, we should warn one another not to grow




388        TWesley his Own Historianz.      [I785.
weary or faint in our mind; if haply we may see
such another prodigy as the late one at Paulton, near
Bath, where there was a very swift work of God, and
yet, a year after, out of a hundred converted there
was not one backslider!
The number of children that are clearly converted
to God is particularly remarkable. Thirteen or fourteen
little maidens in one class are rejoicing in God their
Saviour, and are as serious and stayed in their whole
behavior as if they were thirty or forty years old.  I
have much hopes that half of them will be steadfast
in the grace of God which they now enjoy.
The Baleful Tendency of Riches,
Monday, April 25. Being desired to preach at
Ballinasloe, in my way to Aghrim, I stood, about
eleven, in the shade of a large house, and preached
to a numerous congregation of Papists and Protestants, equally attentive, on " The kingdom of God is
at hand." As I entered Aghrim, the Rector, who
was waiting at his gate, welcomed me into the country, and desired me to use his church, both now and
whenever I pleased. I preached there at six. It
was thoroughly filled with well-behaved hearers.
But the society here, as well as that at Tyrrell's Pass,
is well nigh shrunk into nothing! Such is the baleful influence of riches!  The same effect we find in
every place.  The more men increase in goods (very
few excepted) the more they decrease in grace.
Wesley Preaches to Large Congregations in Ireland.
Thursday, April 28. I supposed the house at Portarlington would have more than contained the




1785.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       389
congregation, but it would scarce contain a third part
of them. So I removed to the market-house, and
preached on the general judgment. The word was
quick and powerful, so that very few appeared to be
unaffected. In the evening I preached in the church
at Mount Mellick.  Perhaps such a congregation
was never there before.
Friday, April 29. I preached at our house at Kilkenny to just such another congregation.
Saturday, April 30. I preached at Waterford in
the Court-house, one of the largest in the kingdom.
Sunday, May r. At eight I preached in the Courthouse to a larger congregation than before. At four
I preached at the head of the Mall to a Moorsfield
congregation. All quiet and attentive.
Monday, May 2. The congregation at five in the
morning was larger than on Saturday evening.
Thlursday, May 5. Before I came half way to Cork
I was met by about thirty horsemen. We dined at
Middleton, and then rode on through a pleasant,
well-cultivated country to Cork. In the evening many
in the crowded congregation were much comforted.
Death of a Venerable Saint.
Saturday, May 7. On this day that venerable saint,
Mr. Perronet, desired his granddaughter, Miss Briggs,
who attended him day and night, to go out into the
garden and take a little air. He was reading, and
hearing her read the three last chapters of Isaiah.
When she returned he was in a kind of ecstacy, the
tears running down his cheeks from a deep sense of
the glorious things which were shortly to come to
pass. He continued unspeakably happy that day,




.390        Wesley his Own Historian.      [I785.
and on Sunday was, if possible, happier still. And
indeed heaven seemed to be as it were opened to all
that were round about him. When he was in bed
she went into his room to see if any thing was wanting, and, as she stood at the foot of the bed, he
smiled and broke out, "God bless thee, my dear
child, and all that belong to thee! Yea, he will bless
thee! " Which he earnestly repeated many times,
till she left the room. When she went in the next
morning, Monday, May 9, his spirit was returned to
God!  So ended the holy and happy life of Mr.
Vincent Perronet, in the ninety-second year of his
age. I follow hard after him in years, being now in
the eighty-second year of my age. O that I may
follow him in holiness, and that my last end may be
like his!
The Happy Little Girl.
tWednesday, May 18. Learning that a little girl had
sat up all night and then walked two miles to see
me, I took her into the chaise, and was surprised
to find her continually rejoicing in God.  The
person with whom the preachers lodge informed
me that she had been two years possessed of his
pure love.
Wesley's Views of the Irishl Language.
MIay. In my way from Limerick hither I read and
carefully considered Major Vallance's Irish Grammar,
allowed to be the best extant. And supposing him
to give a true account of the Irish language, it is not
only beyond all comparison worse than any ancient
language that I know any thing of, but below English,
French, German, Italian, Spanish, or any other modern




I785.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        391
language. The difficulty of reading it is intolerable,
occasioned chiefly by the insufferable number of mute
letters, both of vowels and consonants, the like of
which is not to be found in any language under
heaven. The number of pronouns and the irregular
formation of the verbs is equally insufferable.  But
nothing is so insufferable as their poetry, the whole
construction of which is so trifling and childish, and
yet requires more pains to write than either the
modern rhyme or the ancient attention to long and
short syllables.
Wesley Preaches Eleven Times in Four Days,
Wednesday, May 25. I preached about ten in the
Court-house at Manorhamilton, and then rode over
the Black Mountain, now clothed with green, and
through a delightful road, to Mount Florence. Here
I observed the party-colored gates (as they were some
years since) to be painted plain red. The wind was
high and piercing cold, yet the multitude of people
obliged me to preach in the open air.
Thursday, May 26. I preached in the Assemblyroom at Swadlingbar, but not without difficulty, my
cold being so increased that I could not sing, nor
speak, but just in one key. However, I made shift
to preach in the church at Ballyconnel in the evening, though it was very full, and consequently very
hot.
Friday, Msray 27. Feeling myself much as I was
eleven years ago, and not knowing how short my time
of working might be, I resolved to do a little while I
could, so I began at five; and though I could scarce
be heard at first, yet the more I spoke the more my




392         W(esley his Ownz Historian.    [1785.
voice was strengthened.  Before I had half done
every one could hear. To God be all the glory!
About ten I preached at Killeshandra to a multitude of people. But my voice was now so strengthened that every one could hear. In the evening, there
being no house at Killmore that could contain half
the congregation, I was obliged again to preach abroad.
There were several sharp showers, but none went
away, for it pleased the Lord to send therewith
gracious rain on the souls of them that feared him.
Saturday, May 22. At five, though I had not quite
recovered my voice, I judged it best to speak as I
could. So I preached in Mr. Creighton's barn, and
at seven in the ball-room at Cavan. I had designed
to go straight from hence to Clones, but, a friend
sending me word that Mr. Sanderson was willing I
should preach in his church at Ballyhays, I altered
my purpose and went thither. Abundance of people
were waiting for me, but Mr. Sanderson having
changed his mind, I preached in the inn yard to a
very well-behaved congregation of rich as well as
poor. Hence I went to Clones, where I found such a
society as I had hardly seen in Ireland, making it a
point of conscience to conform to all our rules, great
and small. The new preaching-house was exceeding
neat, but far too small to contain the congregation.
The first time I preached to-day was with difficulty;
the second and third with less; the fourth with
none at all.
Wesley Oloses his Eighty-second Year!
Tzesday, Yune 28. By the good providence of God
I finished the eighty-second year of my age. Is any




1785.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        393
thing too hard for God? It is now eleven years since
I have felt any such thing as weariness; many times
I speak till my voice fails, and I can speak no longer;
frequently I walk till my strength fails, and I can
walk no further; yet even then I feel no sensation
of weariness, but am perfectly easy from head to
foot. I dare not impute this to natural causes; it is
the will of God.
Wesley Returns from Ireland to London.
Su3nday, 7'uly  o. I went on board the Prince of
Wales, one of the neatest ships I ever was in. We
left the work of God increasing in every part of the
kingdom, more than it has done for many years.
About two in the morning we sailed out of Dublin
Bay, and came into Holyhead Bay before one in the
afternoon on Monday, I I. That evening we went on
to Gwendy; Tuesday, I2, to Kimmel, one of the
pleasantest inns in Wales, surrounded with gardens
and stately woods, which their late proprietor must
see no more.
Wednzesday, 7uZy 14. We reached Chester. After
preaching there between five and six in the evening
I stepped into the stage-coach, which was just setting
out, and, traveling day and night, was brought safe
to London on Thursday, I5, in the afternoon.
Morning Preaching for the Children.
Sunday, Yuly 17. I preached, both morning and
evening, on  the education of children.  I now
spoke chiefly to the parents, informing them that I
designed to speak to the children at five the next
morning.




394        1Wesley his Own Historian.      [i785.
Monday, 7buy I8. At five not only the morning
chapel was filled, but many stood in the large chapel.
I trust they did not come in vain.
Seventy Preachers at Conference.
Tuesday, 7u/uy 26. Our Conference began, at which
about seventy preachers were present, whom I had
invited by name. One consequence of this was that
we had no contention or altercation at all, but every
thing proposed was calmly considered, and determined
as we judged would be most for the glory of God.
Monday, Autg. I. Having, with a few select friends,
weighed the matter thoroughly, I yielded to their judgment, and set apart three of our well-tried preachers,
John Pawson, Thomas Hanby, and Joseph Taylor, to
minister in Scotland, and I trust God will bless their
ministrations, and show that he has sent them.
Wednesday, Aug. 3. Our peaceful Conference ended,
the God of power having presided over all our consultations.
A Preaching-house made of Brass.
Friday, Aug. 26. In the evenring I preached in the
market-place at St. Ives to almost the whole town.
This was the first place in Cornwall where we
preached, and where Satan fought fiercely for his
kingdom, but all now is peace. I found old John
Nance had rested from  his labors.  Some months
since, sitting behind the preacher in the pulpit, he
sank down, was carried out, and fell asleep!
Saturday, Aug. 27. About nine I preached at the
copper-works, near the Hayle, in the new preachinghouse. I suppose such another is not in England,




I785.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         395
nor in Europe, nor in the world. It is round, and
all the walls are brass, that is, brazen slugs. It seems
nothing can destroy this till heaven and earth pass
away. At two the stewards of all the societies met
at Redruth. There is nothing but peace and love
among them, and among the societies from whence
they came, and yet no great increase! At our lovefeast in the evening several of our friends declared
how God had saved them from inbred sin with such
exactness, both of sentiment and language, as clearly
showed they were taught of God.
Wesley's Voice Heard by a Congregation of Thousands in the
Open Air!
Sunday, Aufg. 28. At half past eight I preached at
St. Agnes to the largest congregation I ever saw
there. Between one and two I preached in the street
at Redruth to thousands upon thousands, and my
strength was as my need, yet I was afraid lest I
should not be able to make all those hear that assembled in the evening.  But, though it was supposed
there were two or three thousand more than ever
were there before, yet they heard (I was afterward
informed) to the very skirts of the congregation, while
I applied those solemn words, "One thing is needful."
Wesley Preaches Mr. Fletcher's Funeral Sermon.
Friday, Nov. 4. I returned to London.
Sunday, Nov. 6. I preached a funeral sermon for
that great and good man, Mr. Fletcher, and most of
the congregation felt that God was in the midst of
them.  In the afternoon I buried the remains of
Judith Perry, a lovely young woman, snatched away




396         Wesley his Own Historian.   [ I 785-86.
at eighteen; but she was ripe for the Bridegroom, and
went to meet him in the full triumph of faith.
Sunday, Alov. I 3. I preached at Shoreditch Church.
The congregation was very numerous, and the collection unusually large.
A Noble Example.
Monday, Dec. 5, and so the whole week, I spent
every hour I could spare, in the unpleasing but necessary work of going through the town and begging
for the poor men who had been employed in finishing the new chapel. It is true that I am not obliged
to do this, but if I do it not nobody else will.
Tragic Death of Joseph Lee,
Tuesday, yan. 30, I786. I had a more particular
account of Joseph Lee than ever I had before. When
I went first to Newcastle-upon-Tyne I chose him,
being a man full of faith and love, to be one of the
leaders, steward of the society, and caterer for our
family.  He discharged his trust with the utmost
ability and integrity. He walked humbly and closely
with God, and was a pattern to all the town as well
as to all the society.  But after some time he was
persuaded to quit Newcastle and settle at Nottingham. There he fell among Antinomians, and, trusting in his own strength, gradually sucked in their
opinion, grew less and less strict, and lost first the
power, and then the very form of religion. After he
had lived some years openly and avowedly without
God in the world, while he was one evening quite
merry with his jovial companions, one of them
said, "Why, Mr. Lee, you was once very godly;




1786.]    lWesley his Own Historian.       397
you was one of those mad Methodists!"  He
answered not a word, but leaned his arm  on the
table and died.
A Cold Sleeping-room
Sunday, Feb. 26. I took a solemn leave of the congregation at the new chapel, at West-street, and at
Brentford.
2/jonday, Feb. 27. We went on to Newbury, with little
interruption from the snow, and I had a comfortable opportunity, with a large and serious congregation. But
I have not passed such a night for these forty years,
my lodging room being just as cold as the outward
air.  I could not sleep at all till three in the morning. I rose at four, and set out at five. But the
snow which fell in the night lay so deep, it was with
much difficulty we reached Chippenham. Taking
fresh horses there we pushed on to Bath, and found
a larger congregation than could well be expected.
An Army of Sunday-school Children,
Tuesday, April 4. In the evening I preached to a
lovely congregation at Stockport.
Friday, April 7. I went on as swiftly, as I could
through Manchester, Wigan, and Bolton.
Sunday, April I6. (Being Easter-Day.) I crossed
over to Warrington, where, having read prayers,
preached, and administered the Lord's Supper, I
hastened back to Bolton. The house was crowded
the more, because of five hundred and fifty children who are taught in our Sunday-schools; such
an army of them got about me when I came out
of the chapel that I could scarce disengage myself
from them.




398        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I786.
Friday, April I7. I went on to Blackburn, which
was sufficiently crowded, it being the fair day. No
house could contain the people; so I stood abroad
and expounded that awful scripture, " I saw the
dead, small and great, stand before God." All were
still as night, unless when they sung; then their
voices were as the sound of many waters.
Wesley Still Preaching Three and Four Times a Day!
Tuesday, April I8. I preached at Padiham, Burnley, Southfield, and Colne.
Thursday, April 20. I went to Otley, and found
God was there both in the evening and morning
service.
Friday, April2 I. I preached at Yeadon, where the
work of God is rapidly going forward. Such a company of loving children I have nowhere seen but at
Oldham, near Manchester.
Sunday, April 23. I preached in Haworth Church
in the morning, and Bingley Church in the afternoon,
but as there were many hundreds that could not get
in, Mr. Atmore preached abroad at the same time.
In the evening I preached to a huge multitude at
Bradford. Surely the people of this town are highly
favored, having both a vicar and a curate that preach
the truth.
Archdeacon Blackburne.
Tuesday, Mlay 9. I went on to Richmond. I
alighted, according to his own desire, at Archdeacon
Blackburne's house.  How lively and active he was
some years ago! I find he is two years younger than
me, but he is now a mere old man, being both blind,
and deaf, and lame. Who maketh thee to differ?




1786.]     WVesley his Own/ Historian.       399
He durst not ask me to preach in his church, " for
fear somebody should be offended." So I preached
at the head of the street to a numerous congregation,
all of whom stood as still (although it rained all the
time) and behaved as well as if we had been in the
church.
A Solemn Parting.
Friday, Ml.ay 12. I preached at Carlisle; and Saturday, 13, after a long day's journey, at Glasgow. After
spending three days here, fully employed, on Wednesday, 17, we went on to Edinburgh.  Here likewise
I had much and pleasant work.  On Friday, I9, f
went forward to Dundee; and on Saturday, 20, to
Arbroath, where I spent the Lord's day in the Lord's
work.
MVonday, JIay 22. Having a long day's journey
before us, we set out at half hour past three; so we
came early to Aberdeen.
PWednesday, MVay 24. We had an exceeding solemn
parting, as I reminded them that we could hardly
expect to see each other's face any more till we met
in Abraham's bosom.
Wesley Preaches Three Times, and Travels Seventy-six Miles
in One Day!
Thursday, 36une 15. I found the work of God at
Scarborough more lively than it had been for many
years.
Friday, ilne I6. In the evening I preached, at
Bridlington quay, to a numerous congregation.
Saturday, 7une 17. I found Mr. Parker at Beverley, in a palace. The gentleman that owned it being
gone abroad, it was let at a moderate rent. I




400         T47e.ley his Ozen Historian.   [1786.
preached here about twelve, about four at Newlands,
and at seven in Hull.
Sunday, 7Iune I8. I was invited by the vicar to
preach in the High Church, one of the largest parish
churches in England. I preached on the Gospel for
the day, the story of Dives and Lazarus. Being
invited to preach in the afternoon, the church was,
if possible, more crowded than before, and I pressed
home the prophet's words, " Seek ye the Lord while
he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near."
Who would have expected, a few years since, to see
me preaching in the High Church at Hull? I had
appointed to preach at Swinfleet, so I went as far as
Beverley this evening, and on Monda. y, 19, set out
early; but being vehemently importuned to go round
by Malton, I did so, and preached there at nine.
Thence I hastened to Pocklington, and, finding the
people ready, stepped out of the chaise and preached
without delay. We reached Swinfleet between six
and seven, having gone in all seventy-six miles. A
numerous congregation was assembled under the
shade of tall trees. Sufficient for this day was the
labor thereof, but still I was no more tired than when
I rose in the morning.
Wesley Enters his Eighty-third Year!
Wednesday, 7une 28. I entered into the eighty-third
year of my age. I am a wonder to myself. It is now
twelve years since I have felt any such sensation as
weariness. I am never tired, (such is the goodness
of God!) either with writing, preaching, or traveling.
One natural cause undoubtedly is, my continual exer



1786.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       40I
cise and change of air. How the latter contributes
to health I know not, but certainly it does.
Bristol Conference,
Tuesday, 7ualy 25. Our Conference began; about
eighty preachers attended.  We met every day at
six and nine in the morning, and at two in the afternoon. On Tuesday and on W47ednesday morning the
characters of the preachers were considered, whether
already admitted or not. On Thursday in the afternoon we permitted any of the society to be present,
and weighed what was said about separating from
the Church; but we all determined to continue
therein without one dissenting voice, and I doubt not
but this determination will stand, at least till I am
removed into a better world. On Friday and Saturday most of our temporal business was settled.
Sunday, 7dly 30. I preached in the room morning
and evening; and in the afternoon at Kingswood,
where there is rather an increase than a decrease in
the work of God.
Mlonday, YUly 3I. The Conference met again,
and concluded on Tuesday morning.  Great had
been the expectations of many that we should have
warm debates; but, by the mercy of God, we had
none at all; every thing was transacted with great
calmness, and we parted, as we met, in peace and love.
Wesley in Holland Again,
Saturday, Aug. I2. Mr. Williams, the minister of
the Episcopal Church, and Mr. Scott, minister of the
Scotch Church, both welcomed me to Holland, but
their kindness involved me in an awkward difficulty.
26




402        Wesley his Own Historian.    [1786.
Mr. Scott had asked the consent of his consistory
for me to preach in his church on Sunday afternoon;
but Mr. Williams had given notice of my preaching
in his church both morning and afternoon, and,
neither of them being willing to give up his point, I
would fain have compromised the matter; but each
seemed to apprehend his honor concerned, and would
not in any wise give up his point. I saw no possible
way to satisfy both but by prolonging my stay in
Holland, in order to preach one Sunday, morning
and afternoon, in the Episcopal, and another in
the Scotch Church; and possibly God may have
more work for me to do in Holland than I am yet
aware of.
Though Mr. Loyal, with whom I lodged when I was
at Rotterdam before, was not in town, being gone
with a friend to Paris, yet I was quite as at home,
and went on in my work without any interruption.
Sunday, Azug. I3. The service began about ten.
Mr. Williams read prayers exceedingly well, and I
preached on those words in the First Lesson, " How
long halt ye between two opinions?" All the congregation gave a serious attention, but I fear they
only heardt but did not feel, but many seemed to be
much affected in the afternoon while I opened and
applied those words, "There hath no temptation
taken you but what is common to men." In the
evening Mr. Scott called upon me, and informed me
that the elders of his Church would not desire me to
stay in Holland on purpose to preach, but would
dismiss my promise.  I then determined to follow
my first plan, and (God willing) to return to England
in a fortnight.




1786.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       403
Wesley busy with his Pen.
Tuesday, Aug. 15. Making the experiment when
we took boat, I found I could write as well in the
boat as in my study, so from this hour I continued
writing whenever I was on board. What mode of
traveling is to be compared with this? About noon
we called on Professor Roers, at Leyden, a very sensible and conversible man. As he spoke Latin very
fluently, I could willingly have spent some hours with
him, but I had appointed to be at Amsterdam in the
evening.
Writes the Life of Fletcher.
Monday, Sept. 25. We took coach in the afternoon,
and on Tuesday morning reached London. I now
applied myself in earnest to the writing of Mr.
Fletcher's Life, having procured the best materials I
could. To this I dedicated all the time I could spare
till November, from five in the morning till eight at
night. These are my studying hours; I cannot write
longer in a day without hurting my eyes.
Saturday, Sept. 30. I went to bed at my usual
time, half an hour past nine, and, to my own feeling,
in perfect health. But just at twelve I was waked
by an impetuous flux, which did not suffer me to rest
many minutes together. Finding it rather increased
than decreased, though (what I never knew before)
without its old companion, the cramp, I sent for Dr.
Whitehead.  He came about four, and, by the blessing of God, in three hours I was as well as ever.
Nor did I find the least weakness or faintness, but
preached, morning and afternoon, and met the society
in the evening without any weariness. Of such a




404         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I786.
one I would boldly say, with the son of Sirach,
"Honor the physician, for God hath appointed
him."
Wesley will not Interfere with Church Hours,
Sunday, Oct. 22. I preached at West-street morning and afternoon, and at Allhallow's Church in the
evening.  It was much crowded, and God gave us so
remarkable a blessing as I scarce ever found at that
church.
Tuesday, Oct. 24. I met the classes at Deptford,
and was vehemently importuned to order the Szunday
service in our room at the same time with that of the
Church.  It is easy to see that this would be a formal separation from the Church.  We fixed both our
morning and evening service all over England, at
such hours as not to interfere with the Church; with
this very design, that those of the Church, if they
chose it, might attend both the one and the other.
But to fix it at the same hour is obliging them to
separate either from the Church or us, and this I
judge to be not only inexpedient, but totally unlawful for me to do.
Another Martyr to Long and Loud Preaching.
Sunday, Nov. 5. I buried the remains of John
Cowmeadow, another martyr to loud and long preaching. To save his life, if possible, when he was half
dead, I took him to travel with me. But it was too
late; he revived a little, but soon relapsed, and after
a few months died in peace. He had the ornament
of a meek and quiet spirit, and was of an exemplary
behavior.




1786-87.]   Wesley his Own Historian.        405
Wesley Transcribes the Record of the London Society.
Tzesday, Dec. 5. In the afternoon I took coach
again, and returned to London at eight on Wednesday morning. All the time I could save to the end
of the week I spent in transcribing the society; a
dull but necessary work, which I have taken upon
myself once a year for near these fifty years.
Prefers St. John's Style.
Friday, 7an. 5, 1787, and in the vacant hours of the
following days, I read Dr. Hunter's Lectures. They
are very lively and ingenious. The language is good,
and the thoughts generally just. But they do not at
all suit my taste.  I do not admire that florid way of
writing.  Good sense does not need to be so studiously adorned. I love St. John's style as well as
matter.
Begging for the Poor again.
Sunday, ian. 7. At the desire of many of our
friends, we began that solemn work of renewing our
covenant with God at three in the afternoon, two
hours earlier than usual.
Monday,.anz. 8, and the four following days, I
went a begging for the poor. I hoped to be able to
provide food and raiment for those of the society who
were in pressing want, yet had no weekly allowance;
these were about two hundred, but I was much disappointed.  Six or seven, indeed, of our brethren
gave ten pounds apiece. If forty or fifty had done
this I could have carried my design into execution.
However, much good was done with two hundred
pounds, and many sorrowful hearts made glad.




406         Wesley his Own Historian.     [ 1787
Wesley Opens the new house at Newark.
Wednesday, Feb. 7. I preached at Brentford, and
in the morning; Thursday evening at Lambeth. At
both places I feund many who promise not to be
forgetful hearers but doers of the word.  Being
earnestly desired by our brethren at Newark, one
hundred and twenty-four miles from London, to
come and open their new house, I took the mailcoach, Friday, 9, in the evening, and reached Newark
the next day about four in the afternoon. But having
a great cold, and being so hoarse that I could not
preach, I desired Mr. Mather to supply my place till
I had recovered my voice.
Sunday, Feb..I I. Having partly recovered my voice,
I preached in the new house at nine-a lightsome,
cheerful building, and gave notice of preaching at
five in the afternoon. But it was not long before I
received a message from the Mayor, to desire me to
begin preaching a little later, that himself and several
of the Aldermen might the more conveniently attend.
They all came at half an hour past five, and as many
people as could possibly squeeze in, and God opened
my mouth to speak strong words, and the hearts of
many to receive them. Surely God will have a
people in this place that will adorn the doctrine of
God our Saviour.
Wesley Lifted Over the Seats into the Pulpit.
Sunday, March 4. I began the service at half an
hour past nine, and concluded it before one. I suppose such a number of communicants were never
seen before at Plymouth Dock, but there was no
disorder or hurry at all. There was more difficulty




I787.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        407
in the evening; the throng was so great that it was
impossible for me to get through them to the pulpit;
so at length they made shift to lift me over the seats.
Again God spoke in his word, I believe to all that
could get in; but some could not, and were constrained to go away.
Monday, March/ 5. The house was well filled again,
both above and below; and after a solemn parting we
took coach at six, leaving such a flame behind us as
was never kindled here before. God grant it may never
be put out! We reached Exeter between two and three.
In the evening I preached on " By grace are ye saved
through faith," to as many as could possibly squeeze
into the room. It was a glorious opportunity.  God
uttered his voice, and that a mighty one. It seemed to
break the rocks in pieces, to make the stout-hearted
tremble.  I know not that I ever saw such an impression made on the people of Exeter before.
An Hour with Mrs. Fletcher.
Saturday, March I O. I had the pleasure of an
hour's conversation with Mrs. Fletcher.  She appears to be swiftly growing in grace and ripening for a
better world. I encouraged her to do all the good she
could during her short stay in Bristol. Accordingly
she met in the following week as many of the classes
as her time and strength would permit, and her
words were as fire, conveying both light and heat to
the hearts of all that heard her.
Sunday, March  Ii. We had a solemn season at
the room both in the morning and evening; and
also in the afternoon at Kingswood, where the work
of God revives as well as at Bristol,  I strongly




408         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1787
warned the people of Bristol of their indolence,
through which the preacher had twelve, ten, or five
hearers in a morning, and advised them to shake it
off. Many of them did so, and I suppose we had
three hundred on 3aonday morning, one hundred
and fifty on Saturday, and between two and three
hundred every morning of the week besides.
Gently Sliding into a Better World,
Maarch. In the evening I preached at Congleton
to a serious and well-established people. Here I
found my co-eval, Mr., two months (I think)
younger than me, just as a lamp going out for want
of oil, gently sliding into a better world; he sleeps
always, only waking now and then just long enough
to say, "I am happy."
Ought it to be Suffered in a Christian Church?
Sunday, April 7. (Being Easter-Day.)  I preached
in Bethesda, Mr. Smyth's new chapel.  It is very
neat, but not gay, and I believe will hold about as
many people as West-street chapel.  Mr. Smyth
read prayers, and gave out the hymns, which were
sung by fifteen or twenty fine singers; the rest of
the congregation listening with much attention, and
as much devotion, as they would have done to an
opera. But is this Christian worship? Or ought it
ever to be suffered in a Christian church?
Honorable Sinners Accommodated&
April. On Monday and Tuesday I preached again
at- Bethesda, and God touched several hearts, even
of the rich and great, so that (for the time at least)




1787.]      Wesley his Owzn H7istorian.      409
they were "almost persuaded to be Christians." It
seems as if the good providence of God had prepared this place for those rich and honorable sinners
who will not deign to receive any message from
God but in a genteel way.
An Old Antagonist.
Saturday, May I2. A  gentleman invited me to
breakfast with my old antagonist, Father O'Leary.
I was not at all displeased at being disappointed.
He is not the stiff, queer man that I expected, but of an
easy, genteel carriage, and seems not to be wanting
either in sense or learning. In the afternoon, by
appointment, I waited on the Mayor, an upright,
sensible man, who is diligently employed from morning to night in doing all the good he can.  He has
already prevailed upon the corporation to make it a
fixed rule that the two hundred a year, which was
spent in two entertainments, should for the future be
employed in relieving indigent freemen, with their
wives and children. He has carefully regulated the
House of Industry, and has instituted a Humane
Society for the relief of persons seemingly drowned,
and he is unwearied in removing abuses of every
kind. When will our English Mayors copy after
the Mayor of Cork?
The Lions become Lambs
Wednesday, May 30. A large room, designed for
an assembly-room, was filled in the morning, and the
poor people appeared to be quite ripe for the highest
doctrine of the Gospel; so I exhorted them, leaving
the first principles, to " go on unto perfection."




410o        Wesley his Owzn Historian.   [I787.
About eleven I preached in the market-house at
Enniskillen, formerly a den of lions-but the lions
are become lambs. They flocked together from every
part, and were all attention. Before I had half done
God made bare his arm, and the mountains flowed
down at his presence.  Many were cut to the heart,
and many rejoiced with joy unspeakable. Surely the
last shall be first, and poor Enniskillen shall lift up
its head above many of the places where the Gospel
has been long preached. In the evening I preached
to another numerous congregation at Sidare, a large
house at the foot of the mountains. One would
wonder whence all the people came-they seemed to
spring out of the earth. Here, also, there were once
many bitter persecutors, but they are vanished away
like smoke. Several of them indeed came to a fearful end, and their neighbors took warning by them.
Arrival of Dr. Coke from America,
Tuesday, Yune 26. We were agreeably surprised
with the arrival of Dr. Coke, who came from Philadelphia in nine-and-twenty days, and gave us a pleasing account of the work of God in America.
Thursday, l7une 28. I had the pleasure of a conversation with Mr. Howard, I think one of the greatest men in Europe. Nothing but the mighty power
of God can enable him to go through his difficult and
dangerous employments. But what can hurt us if
God is on our side?
Saturday, Yune 30. I desired all our preachers to
meet me, and consider the state of our brethren
in America, who have been terribly frightened at
their shadow, as if the English preachers were




I787.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        411
just going to enslave them. I believe that fear
is now over, and they are more aware of Satan's
devices.
i'ish House of Commons.
Wednesday, Auly 4. I spent an hour at the New
Dargle, a gentleman's seat four or five miles from Dublin. I have not seen so beautiful a place in the kingdom. It equals the Leasowes in Warwickshire, and it
greatly exceeds them in situation-all the walks lying
on the side of the mountain, which commands all Dublin Bay, as well as an extensive and finely variegated
land prospect. A little river runs through it, which
occasions two cascades at a small distance from each
other.  Although many places may exceed this in
grandeur, I believe none can exceed it in beauty.
Afterward I saw the Parliament House. The House
of Lords far exceeds that at Westminster, and the
Lord Lieutenant's throne as far exceeds that misererable throne (so called) of the King in the English
House of Lords. The House of Commons is a noble
room indeed. It is an octagon, wainscoted round
with Irish oak, which shames all mahogany, and galleried all round for the convenience of the ladies.
The Speaker's chair is far more grand than the throne
of the Lord Lieutenant.  But what surprised me
above all were the kitchens of the house and the
large apparatus for good eating. Tables were placed
from one end of a large hall to the other, which, it
seems, while the Parliament sits, are daily covered
with meat at four or five o'clock for the accommodation of the members. Alas, poor Ireland! Who
shall teach thy very Senators wisdom?




4I2        Wesley his Own Historian.     [1787.
Wesley Saved from Shipwreck.
Wednesday, dauly I i. At five I took an affectionate
leave of this loving people, and, having finished all my
business here, in the afternoon I went down with my
friends, having taken the whole ship, and went on
board the Prince of Wales, one of the Parkgate
packets. At seven we sailed with a fair, moderate
wind.  Between nine and ten I lay down as usual
and slept till near four, when I was waked by an uncommon noise, and found the ship lay beating upon
a large rock about a league from Holyhead. The
captain, who had not long lain down, leaped up, and,
running upon the deck, when he saw how the ship
lay cried out, "Your lives may be saved, but I am
undone! " Yet no sailor swore, and no woman cried
out. We immediately went to prayer, and presently
the ship, I know not how, shot off the rock and pursued her way, without any more damage than the
wounding a few of her outside planks. About three
in the afternoon we came safe to Parkgate, and in
the evening went on to Chester.
Bolton Sunday-school.
Friday, 3t:ly 27. We went on to Bolton.  Here
are eight hundred poor children taught in our Sun.
day-schools by about eighty masters, who receive
no pay but what they are to receive from their great
Master. About a hundred of them (part boys and
part girls) are taught to sing; and they sung so true,
that, all singing together, there seemed to be but
one voice. The house was thoroughly filled, while I
explained and applied the first commandment. What
is all morality or religion without this?  A mere




I 787.     WTesley his Own Historian.        4I 3
castle in the air. In the evening, many of the children still hovering round the house, I desired some
forty or fifty to come in and sing,
Vital spark of heavenly flame.
Although some of them were silent, not being able
to sing for tears, yet the harmony was such as I
believe could not be equaled in the King's chapel.
Wesley and Dr. Coke preach alternately,
Saturday, Azgo. II. We went on board the Queen,
a small sloop, and sailed eight or nine leagues with a
tolerable wind. But it then grew foul and blew a
storm, so that we were all glad to put in at Yarmouth
harbor. About six Dr. Coke preached in the markethouse to a quiet and tolerably attentive congregation.
The storm continuing, at eight in the morning, Sunday, I2, I preached to a much larger congregation.
I had uncommon liberty of speech, and I believe
some of them felt that God was there. At eleven we
went to church. There was a tolerable congregation,
and all remarkably well-behaved. The minister read
prayers very seriously, and preached on "Blessed
are the poor in spirit." At four I preached again on
Luke xix, 42, (part of the second lesson in the morning,) " If thou hadst known, even thou," etc. The
market-house was now more than filled, and not a
few seemed to hear as for life. In the evening Dr.
Coke preached again. We have now delivered our
own souls at Yarmouth, and trust God will suffer us
to go on to Guernsey.
Resort to Prayer in time of Peril,
Tuesday, Ang. I4. Sailing on with a fair wind, we
fully expected to reach Guernsey in the afternoon;




414         Wesley his Own Historian.     [I787.
but the wind turning contrary and blowing hard, we
found it would be impossible. We then judged it
best to put in at the Isle of Alderney, but we were
very near being shipwrecked in the bay.  When we
were in the middle of the rocks, with the sea rippling
all round us, the wind totally failed.  Had this continued we must have struck upon one or other of the
rocks, so we went to prayer, and the wind sprung up
instantly.  About sunset we landed, and, though we
had five beds in the same room, slept in peace.
About eight I went down to a convenient spot on the
beach, and began giving out a hymn. A woman and
two little children joined us immediately. Before the
hymn was ended we had a tolerable congregation, all
of whom behaved well; part, indeed, continued at
forty or fifty yards' distance, but they were all quiet
and attentive.
Isle of Guernsey.
Soon after we set sail, and, after a very pleasant
passage through little islands on either hand, we came
to the venerable castle, standing on a rock, about a
quarter of a mile from Guernsey.  The isle itself
makes a. beautiful appearance, spreading as a crescent
to the right and left, about seven miles long and five
broad, part high land and part low. The town itself
is boldly situated, rising higher and higher from the
water. The first thing I observed in it was, very
narrow streets and exceeding high houses.  But we
quickly went on to Mr. De Jersey's, hardly a mile from
the town. Here I found a most cordial welcome,
both from the master of the house and all his family.
I preached at seven, in a large room, to as deeply




1787.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        415
serious a congregation as I ever saw, on "Jesus
Christ, of God made unto us wisdom, righteousness
sanctification, and redemption."
Wesley in Cornwall again.
Saturday, Sept. 8. Dr. Coke preached at six to as
many as the preaching-house would contain. At ten
I was obliged to take the field by the multitude of
people that flocked together. I found a very uncommon liberty of speech among them, and cannot doubt
but the work of God will flourish in this place. In
the evening I preached at St. Ives, (but, it being the
market-day, I could not stand as usual in the marketplace,) in a very convenient field, at the end of the
town to a very numerous congregation, I need scarce
add, and very serious, for such are all the congregations in the county of Cornwall.
Sunday, Sept. 9. About nine I preached at the
Copper Works, three or four miles from St. Ives, to a
large congregation gathered from all parts, I believe
" with the demonstration of the Spirit." I then met
the society in the preaching-house, which is unlike any
other in England, both as to its form and materials.
It is exactly round, and composed wholly of brazen
slags, which I suppose will last as long as the earth.
Between one and two, I began in the market-place at
Redruth to the largest congregation I ever saw
there; they not only filled all the windows, but sat
on the tops of the houses. About five I began in
the pit at Gwennap. I suppose we had a thousand
more than ever were there before; but it was all one,
my voice was strengthened accordingly, so that every
one could hear distinctly.




416         Wesley his Own Historian.    [I787.
A Little Tour through Oxfordshire.
Sunday, Oct. I4. I preached in West-street chapel
morning and afternoon, and at St. Swithin's Church
in the evening.
Monday, Oct. I5. I began a little tour through
Oxfordshire. I preached at Wallingford in the evening, with much enlargement of heart. Mr. Pentycross called upon me in the morning, Tuesday, I6.
Calvinism and bitterness are fled away together, and
we willingly gave each other the right hand of fellowship. About one I preached at Oxford to a very
quiet, deeply serious congregation. The house at
Witney would nothing near contain the people in
the evening-it was well filled at five on Wednesday
morning. I dearly love this people, they are so
simple of heart, and so much alive to God.  After
dinner we returned to Oxford. Half an hour before the
hour of preaching a heavy rain began; by this means
the house was filled, and not over filled. I found
great liberty of speech in enforcing the first and
great commandment, and could not but hope there
will be a great work of God here notwithstanding
all the wisdom of the world.
Thursday, Oct. I8. We went on to High Wycomb.
The work of God is so considerably increased
here that, although three galleries are added to the
preaching-house, it would scarce contain the people.
Even at five in the morning, Friday, 19, it was
thoroughly filled. Never before was there so fair a
prospect of doing good at this place. I dined in
London.




1787.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         417
Wesley Rides in a Farmers Cart.
1Wednesday, Oct. 3I. I preached in the morning on
the Woman of Canaan, and in the afternoon I went
over to Mr. Hicks, at Wrestlingworth, through such
roads as no chaise could pass, so we had the pleasure
of riding in a farmer's cart. It was such a motion as
I never felt before; but to make amends, the church
was so filled as I never had seen it, and I was enabled
to speak with unusual plainness. Surely some received
the truth in the love thereof.
The Conventicle Act.
Saturday, Nov. 3. I had a long conversation with
Mr. Clulow on that execrable act called the Conventicle Act. After consulting the Act of Toleration
with that of the fourteenth of Queen Anne, we were
both clearly convinced that it was the safest way to
license all our chapels, and all our traveling preachers,
not as dissenters, but simply as "Preachers of the
Gospel;" and that no justice, or bench of justices, has
any authority to refuse licensing either the house
or the preachers.
Mr. Duff's "Essay on Genius."
Monday, Nov. 5. In my way to Dorkin  I read
Mr. Duft's "Essay on Genius." It is, beyond all
comparison, deeper and more judicious than Dr. G.'s
essay on that subject.  If the Doctor had seen it,
(which one can hardly doubt,) it is a wonder he would
publish his Essay. Yet I cannot approve of his
method. Why does he not first define his term,'that
we may know what he is talking about? I doubt,
because his own idea of it was not clear; for genius
27




418         Wesley his Owlz Historian.     [1787.
is not imagination, any more than it is invention.
If we mean by it a quality of the soul, it is, in its
widest acceptation, an extraordinary capacity, either
for some particular art or science, or for all; for whatever may be undertaken. So Euclid had a genius
for mathematics, Tully for oratory; Aristotle and
Lord Bacon had a universal genius, applicable to
every thing.
Wesley Still Visits the Classes.
Monday, Nov. 19. I began the unpleasing work of
visiting the classes. I continue to do this in London
and Bristol, as well as in Cork and Dublin. With
the other societies their respective assistants supply
my lack of service.
Early to Bed, Early to Rise.
Sunday, Dec. 9. I went down at half hour past five,
but found no preacher in the chapel, though we had
three or four in the house, so I preached myself.
Afterward, inquiring why none of my family attended
the morning preaching, they said it was because they
sat up too late.  I resolved to put a stop to this, and
therefore ordered that, I. Every one under my roof
should go to bed at nine; that, 2. Every one might
attend the morning preaching, and so they have
done ever since.
Crowned Heads of Europe in Wax.
Monday, Dec. io. I was desired to see the celebrated
wax-work at the museum in Spring Gardens; it
exhibits most of the crowned heads in Europe, and
shows their characters in their countenance. Sense
and majesty appear in the King of Spain; dullness




1787-88.]   Wesley his Own Historian.        419
and sottishness in the King of France; infernal
subtlety in the late King of Prussia, (as well as the
skeleton Voltaire;) calmness and humanity in the
Emperor, and King of Portugal; exquisite stupidity
in the Prince of Orange; and amazing coarseness,
with every thing that is unamiable, in the Czarina.
Free Seats Still.
Tuesday, Dec. I8. I retired to Newington, and hid
myself for almost three days.
Fuiday, Dec. 2I. The committee proposed to me,
i. That families of men and women should sit together in both chapels; 2. That every one who took
a pew should have it as their own; thus overthrowing
at one blow the discipline which I have been establishing for fifty years!
Saturday, Dec. 22. I yielded to the importunity of
a painter, and sat an hour and a half in all for my
picture. I think it was the best that ever was taken;
but what is the picture of a man above fourscore?
Monday, Dec. 24. We had another meeting of the
committee, who after a calm and loving consultation
judged it best, I. That men and women should sit
separate still; and, 2. That none should claim any
pew as his own either in the new chapel or in
West-street.
Wesley Conscious of Physical Decay,
Saturday, March I, I788. I considered, What difference do I find by an increase of years.  I find,
I. Less activity; I walk slower, particularly up hill;
2. My memory is not so quick; 3. I cannot read so
well by candle-light. But I bless God that all my




420        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I788.
other powers of body and mind remain just as they
were.
Sunday, Marc/z 2. I preached at eleven, at half an
hour past two, and at half hour past five. The first
congregation was large, and so was the second; but
the third was far the largest, filling every corner of
the house. And the power of God seemed to increase
with the number of the people, insomuch that in the
evening while I was applying, "To me to live is
Christ, and to die is gain," the glory of the Lord
seemed to overshadow the congregation in an uncommon manner, and I trust the impression then made
upon rich and poor will not soon wear off.
Wesley Preaches on Slavery.
Monday, March 3. I went to Bristol, and having
two or three quiet days, finished my sermon upon
Conscience. On Tuesday I gave notice of my design
to preach on Thursday evening upon (what is now
the general topic) Slavery. In consequence of this,
on Thursday, the house from end to end was filled
with high and low, rich and poor. I preached on
that ancient prophecy, "God shall enlarge Japhet.
And he shall dwell in the tents of Shem, and Canaan
shall be his servant."  About the middle of the discourse, while there was on every side attention still
as night, a vehement noise arose, none could tell
why, and shot like lightning through the whole congregation. The terror and confusion were inexpressible. You might have imagined it was a city taken
by storm. The people rushed upon each other with
the utmost violence, the benches were broke in
pieces, and nine tenths of the congregation appeared




I788.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        42I
to be struck with the same panic.  In about six
minutes the storm ceased, almost as suddenly as it
rose, and, all being calm, I went on without the least
interruption. It was the strangest incident of the
kind I ever remember, and I believe none can account
for it without supposing some preternatural influence.
Satan fought lest his kingdom should be delivered
up. We set Friday apart as a day of fasting and
prayer, that God would remember those poor outcasts
of men, and (what seems impossible with men, considering the wealth and power of their oppressors)
make a way for them to escape, and break their
chains in sunder.
Wesley Delighted with the Singing,
Saturday, April 19. We went on to Bolton, where
I preached in the evening in one of the most elegant
houses in the kingdom, and to one of the liveliest
congregations. And this I must avow, there is not
such a set of singers in any of the Methodist congregations in the three kingdoms. There cannot be,
for we have near a hundred such trebles, boys and
girls, selected out of our Sunday-schools, and accurately taught, as are not found together in any
chapel, cathedral, or music-room within the four
seas. Besides, the spirit with which they all sing,
and the beauty of many of them, so suits the melody
that I defy any to exceed it, except the singing of
angels in our Father's house.
Sunday, April 20. At eight, and at one, the house
was thoroughly filled. About three I met between nine
hundred and a thousand of the children belonging to
our Sunday-schools. I never saw such a sight before.




422         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I788.
Wesley in Scotland Again.
May. We set out on Thursday, 15, at four, and
reached Glasgow, Friday, I6, before noon.  Much of
the country, as we came, is now well improved, and
the wilderness become a fruitful field.
Our new preaching-house will, I believe, contain
about as many as the chapel at Bath. But O the
difference! It has the pulpit on one side, and has
exactly the look of a Presbyterian meeting-house.
It is the very sister of our house at Brentford.  Perhaps an omen of what will be when I am gone. I
preached at seven to a tolerably large congregation,
and to many of them at five in the morning. At six
in the evening they were increased fourfold, but still
I could not find the way to their hearts.
Only One Condition.
Sunday, May IS. I preached at eleven on the parable of the sower; at half past two on Psalm i, 23,
and in the evening on "Now abideth faith, hope,
love; these three."  I subjoined a short account of
Methodism, particularly insisting on the circumstances.
There is no other religious society under heaven
which requires nothing of men in order to their
admission into it but a desire to save their souls.
Look all around you, you cannot be admitted into
the Church, or society of the Presbyterians, Anabaptists, Quakers, or any others, unless you hold the
same opinions with them, and adhere to the same
mode of worship.  The Methodists alone do not
insist on your holding this or that opinion, but they
think and let think. Neither do they impose any
particular mode of worship; but you may continue




1788.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        423
to worship in your former manner be it what it may.
Now, I do not know any other religious society,
either ancient or modern, wherein such liberty of
conscience is now allowed, or has been allowed, since
the age of the Apostles.  Here is our glorying, and
a glorying peculiar to us. What society shares it
with us?
The Last Week of Wesley's Eighty-fourth Year-Preaches Sevenr
teen Times!
Thursday, 7une 19g. I went about forty miles out.
of my way to see my old friends at Malton, and particularly old Mr. Wilson, at whose house I first lodged
there. Between eleven and twelve I began preaching on " It is appointed unto men once to die;" and
God applied his word, one would almost have thought,
to every one under the roof.  It was a glorious opportunity.  The people were gathered from many
miles round, and I think few repented of their labor.
As soon as the service was over I hasted away, and
reached Beverley (twenty-eight miles) in good time.
The house here, though greatly enlarged, was well
filled with high and low, rich and poor; and (it being
the day of the Archdeacon's visitation) many of the
clergy were there. I rejoiced in this, as it might be a
means of removing prejudice from many sincere minds.
Friday, 7zune 20. I went on to Hull, and in the
evening explained and applied those remarkable
words of our Lord, " Whosoever doeth the will of
God, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother."
The new preaching-house here is nearly as large as
the new chapel in London.  It is well built and
elegantly finished-handsome, but not gaudy.




424         Wesley his Own Historian.     [1788.
Saturday, 7utne 2I. We had a large congregation
at five, larger than even that at Birmingham, which
exceeded all the morning congregations I had then
seen.
Sunday, fune 22. Mr. Clark, the Vicar, inviting
me to preach in the High Church, I explained (what
occurred in the service of the day) what it is to build
our house upon the rock, and applied it as strongly
as I could. I dined at the vicarage with Mr. Clark,
a friendly, sensible man, and, I believe, truly fearing
God. Aynd such, by the peculiar providence of God,
are all the three stated ministers in Hull. He said
he never saw the church so full before. However, it
was still fuller in the afternoon, when, at the desire
of Mr. Clark, I preached on St. James's beautiful
account of the wisdom which is from above. At six
in the evening I preached in our own house, to as
many as could get in, (but abundance of people went
away,) on Gal. vi, 14.
Monday, 7zize 23. About eight we reached Mr.
Stillingfleet's, at Hotham, one of the pleasantest
places I have seen. At nine he read prayers, and I
preached to a large and serious congregation. At
eleven I preached, with much enlargement of heart, in
the new chapel at Market Weighton; and at half an
hour after one in Pocklington, but the house was like
an oven. Between six and seven I began at York
on Rom. xiii, I2.  The word was as fire, and all that
heard it seemed to feel the power thereof.
Tuesday, U;zne 24. Having no other opportunity,
I went over to Thirsk, and preached in the evening
on I Peter i, 24. All the congregation were serious,
but two young gentlewomen, who laughed and talked




I788.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        425
incessantly, till I turned and spoke expressly to them.
They then seemed to be ashamed.
Wednesday, ~Yune 25. Believing the little flock
there wanted encouragement, I took Ripon in my
way to York, and gave them a strong discourse on
the story of Dives and Lazarus. Many strangers
seemed greatly astonished, and I believe they will
not soon forget what they heard, for God applied it to
their hearts, as he did also the parable of the sower
at York, I will hope, to most of the congregation.
Thursday, j/une 26. The Vicar of Selby having
sent me word that I was welcome to preach in his
church, I went that way.  But before I came he had
changed his mind, so I preached in our own chapel, and
not without a blessing.  In the evening I preached
at Thorne to a larger congregation than I ever saw
in the house before.
Friday, fine 27. At nine I preached in the church
at Swinfleet, filled from end to end. About eleven I
preached at Crowle to a large congregation, and I am
now in hope that there will be a good harvest here
also, seeing the almost perpetual jars are now at an
end. Thence I came once more (perhaps for the
last time) to Epworth, where, by the prudence and
diligence of T. Tattershall, the people have now forgot their feuds and are at unity with each other.
Wesley Enters his Eighty-fifth Year
Saturday, yune 28. I this day enter on my eighty..
fifth year, and what cause have I to praise God, as
for a thousand spiritual blessings, so for bodily blessings also! How little have I suffered yet by "the
rush of numerous years!" It is true, I am not so agile




426         Wesley his Ownz Historian.     [1788.
as I was in times past.  I do not run or walk so fast
as I did, my sight is a little decayed, my left eye is
grown dim, and hardly serves me to read; I have daily
some pain in the ball of my right eye, as also in my right
temple, (occasioned by a blow received some months
since,) and in my right shoulder and arm, which I impute partly to a sprain and partly to the rheumatism. I
find likewise some decay in my memory with regard
to names and things lately past, but not at all with
regard to what I have read or heard twenty, forty, or
sixty years ago; neither do I find any decay in my
hearing, smell, taste, or appetite, (though I want but
a third part of the food I did once,) nor do I feel any
such thing as weariness, either in traveling or preaching, and I am not conscious of any decay in writing
sermons, which I do as readily, and, I believe, as correctly as ever. To what cause can I impute this,
that I am as I am! First, doubtless, to the power
of God fitting me for the work to which I am called,
as long as he pleases to continue me therein; and
next, subordinately to this, to the prayers of his
children.  May we not impute it as inferior means,
I. To my constant exercise and change of air? 2. To
my never having lost a night's sleep, sick or well, at
land or sea, since I was born? 3. To my having sleep
at command, so that whenever I feel myself almost
worn out I call it and it comes, day or night; 4. To
my having constantly, for above sixty years, risen at
four in the morning? 5. To my constant preaching
at five in the morning for above fifty years? 6. To
my having had so little pain in my life, and so little
sorrow and anxious care? Even now, though I
find pain daily in my eye, or temple, or arm, yet it is




1788.]      Wesley his Own Historian.          427
never violent, and seldom lasts many minutes at a
time. Whether or not this is sent to give me warning that I am shortly to quit this tabernacle, I do not
know; but be it one way or the other, I have only
to say,
My remnant of days
I spend to his praise,
Who died the whole world to redeem:
Be they many or few,
My days are his due,
And they all are devoted to Him-!
No Rest this side of Heaven,
Thursday, y7ssy 3. I was going to preach at Alford,
near the end of the town, but the gentry sent and
desired me to preach in the market-place, which I
accordingly did to a large and attentive congregation
on " It is appointed unto men once to die." Thence
we went to Raithby, an earthly paradise! How gladly
would I rest here a few days, but it is not my place! I
am to be a wanderer upon earth. Only let me find rest
in a better world! At six I preached in the church
to such a congregation as I never saw here before,
but I do not wonder if all the country should flock in
hither to a palace in the midst of a paradise.
Age Steals upon Wesley by Gentle Steps.
Monday, Dec. 15. In the evening I preached at Miss
Teulon's school in Highgate. I think it was the
coldest night I ever remember. The house we were
in stood on the edge of the hill, and the east wind set
full in the window. I counted eleven, twelve, one, and
was then obliged to dress, the cramp growing more
and more violent. But in the morning, not only the




428         Wesley his Own Historian.   [I788-89.
cramp was gone, but likewise the lameness which
used to follow it.
About this time I was reflecting on the gentle
steps whereby age steals upon us. Take only one
instance. Four years ago my sight was as good as
it was at five-and-twenty. I then began to observe
that I did not see things quite so clear with my left
eye as with my right-all objects appeared a little
browner to that eye. I began next to find some difficulty in reading a small print by candle-light. A year
after I found it in reading by daylight. In winter,
1786, I could not well read our four-shilling hymn
book, unless with a large candle; the next year I
could not read letters if wrote with a small or bad
hand. Last winter a pearl appeared on my left eye,
the sight of which grew exceeding dim. The right
eye seems unaltered, only I am a great deal nearersighted than ever I was. Thus are "those that look
out at the windows darkened "-one of the marks of
old age. But I bless God " the grasshopper is" not
" a burden." I am still capable of traveling, and my
memory is much the same as ever it was, and so
I think is my understanding.
Wesley Left no Money in his Will.
Thursday, yan. I, i789. If this is to be the last
year of my life, I hope it will be the best. I am not
careful about it, but heartily receive the advice of the
angel in Milton:
How well is thine; how long permit to heaven.
Sunday, Jan. 4. Although the extreme severity of
the weather kept many tender people away, yet we




1789.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       429
had a large congregation in the evening to renew
covenant with God, and we always find when we
avouch him to be our God he avouches us to be his
people.
Monday, yna. 5. At the earnest desire of Mrs.
T, I once more sat for my picture. Mr. Romney is a painter indeed. He struck off an exact
likeness at once, and did more in one hour than Sir
Joshua did in ten.
Tuesday, ian. 6. I retired to Highbury Place, and
on Thursday, yan. 8, to Peckham. Here, in the evening, I preached to a very serious congregation,
although many of them were of the better rank.
But rich and poor seemed equally determined to
work out their own salvation.
Friday, _7an. 9. I left no money to any one in my
will because I had none.  But now considering that
whenever I am removed money will soon arise by
sale of books, I added a few legacies by a codicil, to
be paid as soon as may be. But I would fain do
a little good while I live, for who can tell what will
come after him?
A Day of Rest!
Saturday, March 2I. I had a day of rest, only
preaching morning and evening.
Sunday, March 22, was appointed for my opening
the house at the east end of the town. It would have
been crowded above measure but that the friendly
rain interposed, so that we had only a moderate congregation. It was otherwise in the evening, when
heaps upon heaps were obliged to go away. How
white are these fields unto the harvest!




430         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1789.
Monday, March 23. The congregation at Dudley
pretty well filled the new house, where I preached as I
did at London fifty years ago. Thence we hastened to
Madeley, where I found Mrs. Fletcher better than
she had been for many years, and young Mr. Fletcher
much alive to God, and swiftly growing up into the
spirit of his uncle. I preached in the evening, after
Mr. Horne had read prayers, to a deeply serious congregation; and again at nine in the morning, Wednesday, March 24, in the preaching-house she has
lately fitted up. Going on to Shrewsbury, at six I
preached in the preaching-house on I Cor. xiii, I-3.
Several of the gentry and several clergymen were
there, and, I believe, not in vain. I had purposed to
set out early in the morning, but was persuaded to
stay another day, there being now a fairer prospect
in Salop than had been before. I preached morning
and evening. I have cast my bread upon the waters
and hope it will be found again, at least after many
days.
Wesley Sails for Ireland.
Thursday, Malarcc 26. We set out early, and, taking
post-horses at Clowrust, reached Conway between
eight and nine o'clock, having traveled seventy-eight
miles that day-twenty-eight more than from Chester
to Conway.
Friday, M/arc/ 27. We went on to Holyhead, and
at eight in the evening went on board the Claremont
packet. The wind stood fair three or four hours; it
then turned against us and blew hard. I do not
remember I was ever so sick at sea before, but this
was little to the cramp, which held most of the night
with little intermission. All Saturday we were beat



1789.]     Wlesley his Own Historian.      431
ing to and fro, and gaining little ground, and I was
so ill throughout the day as to be fit for nothing; but
I slept well in the night, and about eight in the
morning, Sunday, 1lIarch 29, came safe to Dublin
quay.
I went straight up to the new room. We had a
numerous congregation, and as serious as if we had
been at West-street. I preached on the sickness
and recovery of King Hezekiah and King George,
and great was our rejoicing. I really took knowledge of the change which God has wrought in this
congregation within a few years.  A great part of
them were light and airy, now almost all appear as
serious as death.         "'Vl;   4J'  - -  
Monday, MrarcL   30. I began, reaching at five in
the morning, and the congregation, both then and
the following mornings, was far larger in proportion
than those in London.
Original Design of the Methodists.
Sunday, April I 2. (Being Easter-Day.) We had a
solemn assembly indeed, many hundred communicants
in the morning, and in the afternoon far more hearers
than our room would contain, though it is now considerably enlarged. - Afterward I met the society, and
explained to them at large the original design of the
Methodists, namely, not to be a distinct party but to
stir up all parties, Christians or Heathens, to worship
God in spirit and in truth,,but the Church of England
in particular, to which they belonged from the beginning. With' this view I have uniformly gone on for
fifty years, never varying from the doctrine of the
Church at all, nor from her discipline of choice, but




432        [Wesley his Own Historian.      [I789
of necessity; so, in a course of years, necessity was
laid upon me, (as I have proved elsewhere,) I.tTo
preach in the open air. 2. To pray extempore. 3. To
form societies. 4. To accept the assistance of Lay
Preachers, and, in a few other instances, to use sucl?
means as occurred, to prevent or remove evils that
we either felt or feared. )
The Poor People must have his Blessing.
Sunday, 3May 24. At seven I preached in the Townhall at Cavan to a very large and well-behaved
congregation. As I went through Ballyhays, the
poor people flocked round me on every side, and
would not be contented till I came out of the chaise,
and spent some time with them in prayer. I expected,
being a fair morning, to see a huge congregation at
Clones; but while we were at church the rain came
on, so all I could do in the evening was to let Joseph
Bradford preach to as many as the house would
contain, and to administer the Lord's Supper to
our own society.
Wesey Enters the Eighty-sixth Year of his Age.
Sunday, iune 28. In the conclusion of the morning service we had a remarkable blessing, and the
same in the evening, moving the whole congregation
as the heart of one man. This day I enter on my
eighty-sixth year. I now find I grow old. I. My
sight is decayed, so that I cannot read a small print
unless in a strong light. 2. My strength is decayed,
so that I walk much slower than I did some years
since. 3.1 My memory of names, whether of persons
or places, is decayed, till I stop a little to recollect




1789.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       433
them. What I should be afraid of is, if I took
thought for the morrow, that my body should weigh
down my mind, and create either stubbornness by the
decrease of my understanding, or peevishness by the
increase of bodily infirmities; but thou shalt answer
for me, O Lord my God.|
The Dublin Conferenoe.
Friday, fuly 3. Our little Conference began in
Dublin, and ended Tuesday, 7. On this I observe:
i. I never had between forty and fifty such preachers
together in Ireland before; all of them we had reason to hope alive to God, and earnestly devoted to his
service. 2. I never saw such a number of preachers
before so unanimous in all points, particularly as to
leaving the Church, which none of them had the
least thought of. It is no wonder that there has
been this year so large an increase of the society.
Sunday, Yuly 5. I desired as many as chose it of
our society to go to St. Patrick's, being the first Sunday in the month. The Dean preached a serious,
useful sermon; and we had such a company of communicants as I suppose scarce had been seen there
together for above a hundred years.  Our house
would not contain them that came in the evening,
many of whom being little awakened, I preached on
" It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the
living God."  On Monday and Tuesday we settled the
rest of our business, and on Wednesday morning we
parted in the same love that we met.  I had much
satisfaction in this Conference, in which, conversing
with between forty and fifty traveling preachers, I
found such a body of men as I hardly believed could
28




434       WTfesley his Own HIistorian    [I789.
have been found together in Ireland; men of so sound
experience, so deep piety, and so strong understanding. I am convinced they are no way inferior to the
English Conference except it be in number.
Conference at Leeds.
Sunday, YUzly 26. I preached at noon in Birstal
house to as lively a congregation as ever was seen
there, and at five preached on the education of
children.
Monday, fi7lyD 27. Being not well able to preach
in the morning, through the heat and dryness
of my mouth, in the evening I preached on I Tim.
vi, 20.
Tuesday, Yuly 28. The Conference began, about a
hundred preachers were present, and never was our
Master more eminently present with us. The case
of separation from the Church was largely considered,
and we were all unanimous against it.
Saaturday, Aug. I. We considered the case of Dewsbury House, which the self-elected trustees have robbed
us of. The point contended for was this: that they
should have a right of rejecting any preachers they
disproved of. But this, we saw, would destroy itinerancy. So they chose J. A     for a preacher, who
adopted W. E~ for his curate. Nothing remained
but to build another preaching-house, toward which we
subscribed two hundred and six pounds on the spot.
Sunday, Auzg. 2. Knowing the church would not
contain half of our congregation added to its own, we
began at our room at half an hour past nine. After
preaching, with the assistance of three other clergymen-I administered the sacrament to fifteen or six



I789.]    lWesley his Own Historian.       435
teen hundred persons, I hope all desirous to be
inward Christians.
Tuesday, Aug. 4. Having before preached to the
people at large, I now spoke directly to the preachers
on " If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles
of God;" and, I am persuaded, God applied his word
to many of their hearts.
Wednesday, Aug. 5. About noon we left Leeds,
and that evening went to Newark, about seventy
miles.
Thursday, Augf. 6. We set out early, and between
four and five reached Hinxworth. I was now pretty
well inclined to rest, but a congregation soon getting
together I could not disappoint them, but preached
on "We love him because he first loved us;" and
after preaching, and traveling fourscore miles, I was
no more tired than when I set out in the morning.
Another Tour West.
Sunday, Aug. 9. The new chapel was sufficiently
crowded, both in the morning and at four in the afternoon. At seven we set out, and about noon on.Yonday, 9, reached Bristol. Finding all things here in a
flourishing state, I set out for the West early on Tuesday morning, and had an exceeding pleasant journey
to Taunton, where we had a full and serious congregation in the evening.
Wednesday, Aufg. io. I had no thought of preaching at Collumpton, though we were to pass through
it; but I yielded to importunity, and preached at one
to a numerous audience. Thence we went on to
Exeter, where the people were in high expectation
of seeing the King, who appointed to be there the




436        Wesley his Ownt Historzan.   [1789.
next day; however, a pretty large congregation assembled, to which I preached at six o'clock. We
set out at three on Thursday, 13, and reached Plymouth between one and two in the afternoon. I
preached to a large audience in the evening; and,
although the day was extremely hot, yet I found
myself better yesterday and to-day than I have been
for some months.
Times Changed in Falmouth,
August. In the afternoon, as we could not pass by
the common road, we procured leave to drive round
by some fields, and got to Falmouth in good time.
The last time I was here, above forty years ago, I
was taken prisoner by an immense mob, gaping and
roaring like lions; but how is the tide turned! High
and low now lined the street from one end of the
town to the other, out of stark love and kindness,
gaping and staring as if the King were going by. In
the evening I preached on the smooth top of the
hill, at a small distance from the sea, to the largest
congregation I have ever seen in Cornwall, except in
or near Redruth. And such a time I have not
known before since I returned from Ireland. God
moved wonderfully on the hearts of the people, who
all seemed to know the day of their visitation.
Wesley Once More in the Amphitheater.
Wednesday, Aug. 19. I preached at noon, in the
High-street in Helstone, to the largest and most
serious congregation which I ever remember to have
seen there.
Thursday, Auzg. 20. I went on to St. Just, and




I789.]     Wesley his Own Historian.        437
preached in the evening to a lovely congregation,
many of whom have not left their first love.
Friday, Aug. 21. About eleven I preached at Newlyn, and in the evening at Penzance; at both places
I was obliged to preach abroad.
Saturday, Aug. 22. I crossed over to Redruth, and
at six preached to a huge multitude, as usual, from
the steps of the market-house. The word seemed to
sink deep into every heart. I know not that ever
I spent such a week in Cornwall before.
Szunda7y, Aztg. 23. I preached there again in the
morning, and in the evening at the amphitheater, I
suppose for the last time, for my voice cannot now
command the still increasing multitude.  It was
supposed they were now more than five-and-twenty
thousand. I think it scarce possible that all should
hear.
A Whole Town Wesley's Hearers.
Thursday, Aug. 27. We set out early, and reached
Truro soon after five. I preached at six, to a house
full of serious people, on " Awake, thou that sleepest."
The congregation seemed to be awake. Thence we
hasted forward to Port Isaac. I preached in the
evening, in an open part of the town, to almost all the
inhabitants of it. How changed [since the time]
when he that invited me durst not take me in, for
fear his house should be pulled down!
The Request of a Poor Man.
Saturday, Auzg. 29. Going through Tavistock, a
poor man asked me to preach.  I began in about a
quarter of an hour, the preaching-house being filled
directly, but with so poor a congregation as I have




438        TW1esley his Own Historian.   [1789.
not seen before for twice seven years. In the evening I preached at Plymouth Dock to a very different
congregation, but equally serious.
Wesley Returns to Bristol.
Sunday, Sept. 6. I read prayers and preached, and
administered the sacrament to many hundred communicants. I preached in the evening as usual, but it was
more than I could well do; yet in four-and-twenty
hours I was as well as usual.  The fair brought
abundance of strangers to the preaching on Jionday,
Tuesday, and Wednesday.
Fruit After Fifty Years.
Thursday, Sept. Io. I went over to Thornbury,
where we preached near fifty years, and hardly saw
any fruit; but whom can we despair of? Now at
length it seems that God's time is come. A few men
of substance in the town have built a neat and commodious preaching-house. It was filled within and
without with serious hearers, and they did not hear
in vain.
A Good Week's Work.
Sunday, Sept. I3. As Mr. Baddiley assisted me in
the morning, I took the opportunity of preaching at
Kingswood in the afternoon, and abroad in the evening, and was abundantly better in the evening than
in the morning.
JIonday, Sept. I4. I spent an agreeable hour with
Mr. Ireland and Mr. Romaine at Brislington. I could
willingly spend some time here, but I have none to
spare.
Tuesday, Sept. I5. In the evening I preached at




I789.]      Wesley his Own Historian.        439
Pensford to an uncommon congregation, and with an
uncommon blessing.
Wednesday, Sefpt. I6. I went on to Midsummer
Norton.  I never saw the church so full before. I
preached on that verse in one of the psalms for the
day, " Open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it." Many
I believe found the promise true. In the evening I
preached to our honest, earnest colliers at Coleford,
most of whom attended again at five in the morning.
T/hursday, Sept. 17. I preached at Frome to a much
larger audience, and with much of the presence of God.
Friday, Sept. I8. At noon I preached at Trowbridge, in an open place, to a multitude of people;
and in the evening to our old, steady congregation at
Bradford, but many of them are gone into a better
world. Scarce any of the rich and honorable are
left, but it is enough that the Gospel is preached to
the poor.
Saturday, Sept. 19. At Bath the scene is changed
again. Here we have the rich and honorable in
abundance, and yet abundance of them came even in
a stormy night, and seemed as attentive as colliers.
Wesley cannot Preach but Twice a Day.
Thnrsdav, Oct. 8. I set out early, and in the afternoon we were brought to London. I am now as well,
by the good providence of God, as I am likely to be
while I live. My sight is so decayed that I cannot
well read by candle-light, but I can write as well as
ever, and my strength is much lessened, so that I
cannot easily preach above twice a day. But, I bless
God, my memory is not much decayed, and my understanding is as clear as it has been these fifty vears.




440        [Wesley his Ozwz Historian.     r i789.
Wesley Preaches at Oxford.
Thuzrsday, Oct. 29. I returned to Oxford; and as
notice had been given, though without my knowledge, of me preaching at noon, I did so on " There is
one God," to a very serious congregation; but in the
evening such a multitude of people pressed in that
they hindered one another from hearing. I know not
when we have had so noisy a congregation; so that,
by their eagerness to hear, they defeated their own
purpose.
Friday, Oct. 30. In my way to Wycomb I spent an
hour at Mr. Smith's, in Cudsdem.  He has ten children, from eighteen to a year or two old, but all under
government, so that I met the very picture of my
father's family. What a wretched steward was he
who influenced Lord H~- to put away such a
tenant! In the evening the house at High Wycomb,
though full, was still as night.
Saturday, Oct. 31. We came safe and well to
London.
The Classes still Share Wesley's Labors
Monday, Nov. 9. I returned to London, and the
four following days I employed in visiting the
classes.
Sunday, Nov. 15. We had, as usual, a large congregation, and a solemn opportunity at Spitalfields,
and another at Shoreditch Church, where I preached
a charity sermon, after the prayers had been read in
such a manner as I never heard before. At five I
preached in the new chapel and met the society, but
it was too much for me.




I789.]      kVesley his Own Historian.       44I
Wesley Resumes Early Morning Preaching.
Monday, Nov. I6. After an intermission of many
weeks, through the dryness of my mouth, I resolved
to try if I could not preach at five in the morning,
and did so with not much difficulty, and I now hope
to hold on a little longer.
Wlednesday, iVov. I8. I found much life in the
society at Brentford, so little cause have we to despair of any people, though for the present ever so
dead!
Thursday, Nov. 19. I preached to a large congregation at Lambeth.  On Friday and Saturday I
answered my letters.
He Preaches Away his Hoarseness.
Wednesday, Dec. I6. Being quite hoarse, I could
neither sing nor speak; however, I determined to
show myself at least where I had appointed to preach.
Coming to Sandwich about noon, and finding the
congregation was waiting, I trusted in God, and
began to speak; the more I spoke the more my
voice was strengthened, so that in a few minutes I
think all could hear, and many I believe took knowledge
that what they heard was not the word of man but
of God. I preached again at Margate in the evening,
till my voice was near as clear as before I begun.
The spirit of God was with us of a truth.
The Tables Turned.
Friday, Dec. 25. (Being Christimas-Day.) We began
the service in the new chapel at four o'clock as usual,
where I preached again in the evening, after having
officiated in West-street at the common hour.




442         PWesley his Own Historian.   [1789-90.
Saturday, Dec. 26. We had a very uncommon congregation in the evening, with a very uncommon
blessing.
Sunday, Dec. 27. I preached in St. Luke's, our
parish church, in the afternoon, to a very numerous
congregation, on "The Spirit and the Bride say,
Come."  So are the tables turned, that I have now
more invitations to preach in churches than I can
accept of.
An Old Man at Last.
Friday, 7an. I, 1790. I am now an old man, decayed
from head to foot. My eyes are dim, my right hand
shakes much, my mouth is hot and dry every morning, I have a lingering fever almost every day, my
motion is weak and slow. However, blessed be God,
I do not slack my labor. I can preach and write
still.
Saturday, yanh. 2. I preached at Snowsfields, to the
largest congregation I have seen there this year, on
"I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ."
Sunday, yan. 3. I suppose near two thousand met
at the new chapel to renew their covenant with God;
a scriptural means of grace which is now almost
every-where forgotten except among the Methodists.
One More Sermon to Little Children,
Sunday, Feb. I4. I preached a sermon to the children at West-street chapel. They flocked together
from every quarter, and truly God was in the midst
of them, applying those words, "Come, ye little
children, hearken unto me, and I will teach you the
fear of the Lord."
Tuesday, Feb. I 6. I retired to Balham for a few




I 790.]     Wesley his Own Historian.      443
days, in order to finish my sermons, and put all my
little things in order.
Thursday, Feb. I8. I preached once more at
poor Wandsworth.
A Week's Work in Bristol.
Thursday, March 4. I went to Bristol, where I found
a people ready prepared for the Lord. The preachers
are in earnest, the fruit of which plainly appears -in
the congregations.
Friday, March 5. Hearing Mr. W, of Bolton,
was dying, I went over and spent an hour with him.
His spirit was much comforted, and in a few days he
was nearly as well as ever.
Saturday, March 6. I preached in the evening at
Temple Church. Mr. Easterbrook has lately been
very ill, but God has again lifted up his head to be a
father to the poor a little longer.
Sunday, March 7. I preached at the room morning
and evening, and about two in the afternoon at Kingswo.od. Just as I had concluded my sermon in the
room a lady came in her carriage in all haste, and,
finding the sermon over, earnestly desired to stay at
the society. Afterward she importuned me much to
call on her at the Hot Wells, where her husband,
Governor Johnstone, died two years ago. On Monday,
Tuesday, WIednesday, and Thursday she came to the
preaching, and seemed to be much affected. On
Friday evening I was at Kingswood, and preached to
such a congregation as I have not seen there on a
week day for forty years, unless it was at a watchnight.
Saturday, March 13. I spent two hours with her




444         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I 790.
at Granby House, and answered all her questions.
She appeared quite willing to know the truth, and to
be altogether a Christian, and vehemently desired, if
our lives were prolonged, that I would visit her in
London. But if we should live, would she then be
willing to see me? If she is, it would be a miracle
indeed.
This week I visited the classes in Bristol. I wonder we do not increase in number, although many
are convinced, many justified, and a few perfected
in love. I can impute the want of increase to
nothing but want of self-denial. Without this, indeed, whatever other helps they have, no believers
can go forward.
Wesley Once More at Birmingham.
Friday, March I9. Coming to Quinton, I found a
congregation waiting for me. So that I might not disappoint them, I preached immediately on " We love
him because he first loved us," and then went on to
Birmingham, which I think is thrice as large as when
I saw it fifty years ago. The congregation were well
squeezed together, and I think most of them got in.
The behavior of the rich and poor is such as does
honor to their profession, so decent, so serious, so
devout, from the beginning to the end! It was the
same the next evening.
Sunday, Mlarch 21. The prayers began at the new
house about half an hour after ten.  It is a little
larger than the new house at Brompton, and admirably well constructed. But several hundreds, I suppose, could not get in. I think all who did found
that God was there. The great house likewise, in




1790.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       445
the evening, was utterly insufficient to contain the
congregation. But God is able to supply this want
also, and his time is best.
Wesley's Eyes now Dim and his Natural Force Abated-but
works on!
Wednesday, March 24. We rode to Madeley through
a pleasant rain, which did not hinder the church from
being thoroughly filled, and I believe all who had
spiritual discernment perceived that it was filled with
the presence of God.
Thursday, March 25. At nine I preached to a select
congregation on the deep things of God, and in the
evening on " He is able to save unto the uttermost
all them that come unto God through him."
Friday, March 26. I finished my sermon on the
Wedding Garment, perhaps the last that I shall write.
My eyes are now waxed dim, my natural force is
abated. However, while I can I would fain do a
little for God before I drop into the dust. In the
evening I preached to a crowded audience at Salop
on "Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at
peace." But I was much ashamed for them. The
moment I had done speaking I suppose fifty of them
were talking all at once; and no wonder they had
neither sense nor good manners-for they were
gentlefolks!
Saturday, March 27. I preached in the evening to a
sensible and well-behaved congregation at Newcastleunder-Lyne. (Observe, that is the name of the river
which runs above the town.)
Sunday, March 28. I preached soon after one in Mr.
Myat's yard, at Lane End; the house would not have




446        Wesley his Own Historian.     [1790.
contained a quarter of the people. At Burslem also
I was obliged to preach abroad, such were the multitudes of the people. Surely the people of this place
were highly favored. Mercy embraced them on every
side.
Monday,.1/arch 29. At nine I preached in the new
chapel at Tunstal, the most elegant I have seen since
I left Bath. My text was, " Let us go on unto perfection," and the people seemed to devour the word.
In the evening I preached at Congleton. The minister, the Mayor, and all the heads of the town were
present; so, that I might not overshoot them, I
preached on Psalm xc, 12, and I believe God applied
it to their hearts.
Tuesday,, March 30. I went on to Macclesfield, and
preached to a crowded audience both this and the
following night. On Thursday morning one of my
horses died. I judged it best to leave the other till
I could procure another, and took post-chaise to
Stockport. A large congregation was ready at six in
the evening. In the morning, on Good Fricday, we
went on to Oldham. The new house would in nowise
contain the congregation, but I preached to as many
as it would contain on I Cor. vi, I9; and at Manchester in the evening, Saturday, April 3, on Heb. iv, I4.
Szlnday, April 4. (Being Easter Day.) I think we
had about one thousand six hundred communicants. I
preached both morning and evening without weariness, and in the evening lay down in peace.
Wesley in Scotland Again.
Tuesday, MJay 25. We returned to Aberdeen, and
I took a solemn farewell of a crowded audience. If




1790.]     TWesley his Own Historian.        447
I should be permitted to see them again, well; if not,
I have delivered my own soul.
WIednesday, May 26. Taking the midland road, we
spent an hour at Lawrence Kirk, which, from an
inconsiderable village, is, by the care and power of
Lord Gordon, soon sprung up into a pleasant, neat,
and flourishing town.  His lordship has also erected
a little library here, adjoining to a handsome and
well-furnished inn.  The country from  hence to
Brechin is as pleasant as a garden; happy would
Scotland be if it had many such gentlemen and
noblemen.  In the evening I began preaching at
Brechin in the Freeman's Lodge, but I was so faint
and ill that I was obliged to shorten my discourse.
Thzursday, JiIay 27. We went on through Forfar
(now a handsome and almost a new town) and Cupar
to Auchterarder. Here we expected poor accommodations, but were agreeably disappointed.  Food,
beds, and every thing else, were as neat and clean as
at Aberdeen or Edinburgh.
Friday, May 28. We traveled through a delightful
country, by Stirling and Kilsythe, to Glasgow. The
congregation was miserably small, verifying what I
had often heard before, that the Scots dearly love the
word of the Lord on the Lord's day. If I live to
come again, I will take care to spend only the
Lord's day at Glasgow.
Villainous Tautology.,
Tuesday, 7zune 8. I wrote a form for settling the
preaching-houses, without any superfluous words,
which shall be used for the time to come verbatim,
for all the houses for which I contribute any thing.




448         Wesley his Own Historian.      [1790.
will no more encourage that villainous tautology of
lawyers, which is the scandal of our nation.] In the
evening I preached to the children of our Sundayschool, six or seven hundred of whom were present.
N. B. None of our masters or mistresses teach for
pay; they seek a reward that man cannot give.
Wesley Enters Upon his Eighty-eighth Year!
Friday, Yugne 25. About noon I preached at Beverley to a serious, well-behaved congregation; and in
the evening to one equally serious, and far more
numerous, at Hull.
Saturday, Ytune 26, was a day of satisfaction. I
preached at seven in the morning and at six in the
evening to as many as our house could contain, the
ground being too wet for the congregation to stand
abroad.
Monday, gune 28. This day I enter into my eightyeighth year. For above eighty-six years I found
none of the infirmities of old age, my eyes did not
wax dim, neither was my natural strength abated,
but last August I found almost a sudden change.
My eyes were so dim that no glasses would help me.
My strength likewise now quite forsook me, and
probably will not return in this world. But I feel
no pain from head to foot, only it seems nature is
exhausted, and, humanly speaking, will sink more
and more till
The weary springs of life stand still at last.
Preaches in Epworth Market-place.
Sunday, Auly 4. I went over to Misterton, where
likewise the work of God was exceedingly decayed.




1790.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       449
The house being far too small to contain the multitude of people, I stood under a spreading tree, and
strongly exhorted them to "strengthen the things
that remained " which were "ready to die." Thence
I hastened back to Epworth, but I could not reach it
till the Church service was begun. It was observed
Mr. Gibson read the prayers with unusual solemnity,
and I believe he was not displeased to see five times
as many at church, and ten times as many at the
Lord's table as usual. As soon as the afternoon
service ended I began in the market-place to press
that awful question, "How shall we escape if we
neglect so great salvation?" on such a congregation
as was never seen at Epworth before.
A Three Hours' Service.
Sunday, Azug. 29. Mr. Baddiley had gone to the
north, and Mr. Collins being -engaged elsewhere, I
had none to assist in the service, and could not read
the prayers myself; so I was obliged to shorten the
service, which brought the prayers, sermon, and
Lord's Supper within the compass of three hours. I
preached in the afternoon near King's Square, and
the hearts of the people bowed down before the Lord.
A Vile Custom Ended.
Saturday, Sept. 4. I went on to Bath, and preached
in the evening to a serious, but small congregation,
for want of notice.
Sunday, Sept. 5. At ten we had a numerous congregation, and mnore communicants than ever I saw
here before. This day I cut off that vile custom, I
know not when or how it began, of preaching three
29




450         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I790.
times a day by the same preacher to the same congregation; enough to weary out both the bodies and
minds of the speaker as well as his hearers.
Wesley's Last Outdoor Sermon,
Thursday, Oct. 7. I went over to that poor skeleton
of ancient Winchelsea.  It is beautifully situated on
the top of a steep hill, and was regularly built in
broad streets, crossing each other, and encompassing
a very large square, in the midst of which was a large
church, now in ruins. I stood under a large tree, on
the side of it, and called to most of the inhabitants
of the town, "The kingdom of heaven is at hand;
repent, and believe the Gospel." It seemed as if all
that heard were, for the present, almost persuaded
to be Christians.
Cause for Humiliation.
Saturday, Oct. 9. We returned to Lonuon.
Monday, Oct. I I. I went on to Colchester, and still
found matter of humiliation. The society was lessened and cold enough; preaching was again discontinued, and the spirit of Methodism quite gone both
from the preachers and the people; yet we had a
wonderful congregation in the evening, rich and- poor,
clergy and laity. So we had likewise on Tuesday
evening. So that I trust God will at length build
up the waste places.
An Honorable Man at Last.
Wednesday, Oct. I3. In the evening I preached at
Norwich, but the house would in nowise contain the
congregation. / How wonderfully is the tide turned!
I am become an honorable man at Norwich. j God




I 790.      TMesley his Own Historian.       451
has at length made our enemies to be at peace with
us; and scarce any but Antinomians open their
mouth against us.
The Last Entries in Wesley's Journal.
Thursday, Oct. 14. I went to Yarmouth, and at
length found a society in peace and much united together. In the evening the congregation was too
large to get into the preaching-house; yet they were
far less noisy than usual. After supper a little company went to prayer, and the power of God fell upon
us, especially when a young woman broke out into
prayer, to the surprise and comfort of us all.
Friday, Oct. I5. I went to Lowestoft to a steady,
loving, well-united society. The more strange it is,
that they neither-increase nor decrease in number.
Saturday, -Oct. I 6. I preached at Loddon about
one, and at six in Norwich,
Sunday, Oct. I7. At seven I administered  the
Lord's Supper to about one hundred and fifty persons, near twice as many as we had last year. I take
knowledge that the last year's preachers were in
earnest.  Afterward we went to our own parish
church; although there was no sermon there, nor at
any of the thirty-six churches in the town, save the
cathedral and St. Peter's. I preached at two. When
I had done Mr. Horne called upon me, who preached
at the cathedral in the morning; an agreeable man,
both in temper and person, and, I believe, much alive
to God. At half an hour after five I preached againto as many as the house would contain, and even
those that could not get in stayed more quiet and
silent than ever I saw them before. Indeed, they all




452        Wesley his Own Historian.     [I790.
seemed to know that God was there, and I have no
doubt but he will revive his work here also.
Monday, Oct. I. No coach going out for Lynn today, I was obliged to take a post-chaise. But at
Dereham no horses were to be had, so we were
obliged to take the same horses to Swaffham. A
congregation was ready here that filled the house,
and seemed quite ready to receive instruction. But
here neither could we procure any post-horses, so
that we were obliged to take a single horse-chaise.
The wind, with mizzling rain, came full in our faces,
and we had nothing to screen us from it, so that I
was thoroughly chilled from head to foot before I
came to Lynn.  But I soon forgot this little inconvenience, for which the earnestness of the congregation made me large amends.
Tuesday, Oct. I9. In the evening all the clergymen
in the town except one, who was lame, were present
at the preaching. They all prejudiced in favor of
the Methodists, as indeed are most of the townsmen, who give a fair proof by contributing so much
to our Sunday-schools, so that there is near twenty
pounds in hand.
Wednesday, Oct. 20. I had appointed to preach at
Diss, a town near Scoleton, but the difficulty was
where I could preach. The minister was willing I
should preach in the church, but feared offending
the Bishop, who, going up to London, was within a few
miles of the town. But a gentleman asking the Bishop
whether he had any objection to it, was answered,
"None at all." I think this church is one of the
largest in this county.  I suppose it has not been
so filled these hundred years.




I790.]       Wesley his Own Historian.          453
Friday, Oct. 22. We returned to London.
Sunday, Oct. 24. I explained to a numerous congregation, in Spitalfields Church, "the whole armor
of God." St. Paul's, Shadwell, was still more crowded
in the afternoon while I enforced that important
truth, " One thing is needful," and I hope many even
then resolved to choose the better part.
Wesley's Final Sickness and Death,
This most interesting record of unparalleled labors
"in the Gospel," was for this reason,* it is presumed,
discontinued, and closes on Sunday, October 24,
1790, when he states that he preached twice at Spitalfields Church. He continued, however, during the
autumn and winter, to visit various places till February, continually praying, "Lord, let me not live to
be useless." The following account of his last days
is taken from the Memoir prefixed to the edition of
his Works by the Rev. Joseph Benson, and is there
inserted as a proper close to his Journal:
" He preached, as usual, in different places in London and its vicinity, generally meeting the society
after preaching in each place, and exhorting them to
love as brethren, to fear God, and honor the king,
which he wished them to consider as his last advice.
He then usually, if not invariably, concluded with
giving out that verse,' 0 that, without a lingering groan,
I may the welcome word receive;
My body with my charge lay down,
Anfid cease at once to work and live.'
* Failure of sight.




454         Wesley his Own Historian.  [I790-9I.
"He proceeded in this way till the usual time of
his leaving London approached, when, with a view to
take his accustomed journey through Ireland or
Scotland, he sent his chaise and horses before him to
Bristol, and took places for himself and his friend in
the Bath coach. But his mind, with all its vigor,
could no longer uphold his worn-out and sinking
body. Its powers ceased, although by slow and
almost imperceptible degrees, to perform their sundry offices, until, as he often expressed himself,
The weary wheels of life stood still at last.'
"Thursdayv February I7, I79I, he preached at
Lambeth; but on his return seemed much indisposed, and said he had-taken cold. The next day,
however, he read and wrote as usual; and in the
evening preached at Chelsea from  "The King's
business requires haste," although with some difficulty, having a high degree of fever upon him. Indeed, he was obliged to stop once or twice, informing
the people that his cold so affected his voice as to
prevent his speaking without those necessary pauses.
On Saturday he still persevered in his usual employments, though, to those about him, his complaints
seemed evidently increasing. He dined at Islington,
and at dinner desired a friend to read him four chapters out of the book of Job, namelyj from the fourth
to the seventh inclusive. On Sunday he rose early,
according to custom- but quite unfit for any of
his usual Sabbath day's exercises. At seven o'clock
he was obliged to lie down, arid slept between three
and four hours.  When he awoke he said, " I have
not had such a comfortable sleep this fortnight past."




1791.]     Wesley his Own Historian.       455
In the afternoon he lay down again, and slept an hour
or two. Afterward two of his own discourses on our
Lord's Sermon on the Mount were read to him, and
in the evening he came down to supper.
"Monday, the 2ist, he seemed much better; and,
though his friends tried to dissuade him from it, he
would keep an engagement, made some time before,
to dine at Twickenham. In his way thither he called
on Lady Mary Fitzgerald; the conversation was truly
profitable, and well became a last visit. On Tuesday
he went on with his usual work, preached in the
evening at the chapel in the City Road, and seemed
much better than he had been for some days.  On
Wednesday he went to Leatherhead, and preached to
a small company on " Seek ye the Lord while he
may be found; call ye upon him while he is near."
This proved to be his last sermon; here ended the
public labors of this great minister of Jesus Christ.
On Thursday he paid a visit to Mr. Wolff's family at
Balham, where he was cheerful, and seemed nearly as
well as usual, till Friday, about breakfast time, when
he grew very heavy.  About eleven o'clock he returned home extremely ill.  His friends were struck
with the manner of his getting out of the carriage,
and still more with his apparent weakness when he
went up stairs and sat down in his chair. He now
desired to be left alone, and not to be interrupted by
any one for half an hour.  When that time was expired some mulled wine was brought to him, of which
he drank a little. In a few minutes he threw it up,
and said,' I must lie down.'  His friends were now
alarmed, and Dr. Whitehead was immediately seiti
for. On,his entering the room he said in a cheerful




456          T esley his Own Historian,     [I 791. I
voice, "Doctor, they are more afraid than hurt.'
Most of this day he lay in bed, had a quick pulse,
with a considerable degree of fever and stupor. And
Saturday, the 26th, he continued in much the same
state, taking very little either of medicine or nourishment.
"Sunday morning he seemed much better, got
up, and took a cup of tea.  Sitting in his chair,
he looked quite cheerful, and repeated the latter
part of the verse, in his brother Charles's Scripture Hymn, on'Forsake me not when my strength
faileth,' namely:'Till glad I lay this body down,
Thy servant, Lord, attend;
And, O! my life of mercy crown
With a triumphant end.'
Soon after, in a most emphatic manner, he said,'Our friend Lazarus sleepeth.' Exerting himself to
converse with some friends, he was soon fatigued,
and obliged to lie down.  After lying quiet some
time, he looked up and said,'Speak to me, I cannot
speak.' On which one of the company said,'Shall
we pray with you, sir?' He earnestly replied,' Yes.'
And while they prayed, his whole soul seemed engaged
with God for an answer, and his hearty Amen showed
that he perfectly understood what was said. About
half an hour after he said,'There is no need of more;
when at Bristol my words were,'I the chief of sinners am,
But Jesus died for me!'
"One said,'Is this the present language of your
heart, and do you now feel as you did then?'




179.]      Wesley his Own Historian.         457
IIe replied,'Yes.'  When  the  same person repeated,' Bold I approach the eternal throne,,
And claim the crown, through Christ my own;'
and added, "Tis enough. He our precious Immanuel
has purchased, has promised all;' he earnestly replied,'He is all! He is all!'  After this the fever was
very high, and, at times, affected his recollection;
but even then, though his head was subject to a temporary derangement, his heart seemed wholly engaged
in his Master's work. In the evening he got up
again, and, while sitting in his chair, he said,' How
necessary it is for every one to be on the right
foundation!'I the chief of sinners am,
But Jesus died for me!'
" Monday, the 28th, his weakness increased. TIe
slept most of the day, and spoke but little; yet that
little testified how much his whole heart was taken
up in the care of the societies, the glory of God, and
the promotion of the things pertaining to that kingdom to which he was hastening. Once he said, in a
low but distinct manner,'There is no way into the
holiest but by the blood of Jesus.' He afterward inquired what the words were from which he had preached
a little before at Hampstead. Being told they were
these,'Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became
poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich;' he
replied,'That is the foundation, the only foundation; there is no other.'
"This day Dr. Whitehead desired he might be asked
if he would have any other physician called in to attend




458          Wesley his Owvn Historian.         [I79i.
-him; but this he absolutely refused.  It is remarkable
that he suffered very little pain,nevercomplaining of any
during his illness, but once of a pain in his left breast.
This was a restless night. Tuesday morning he sung
two verses of a hymn; then lying still, as if to recover
strength, he called for pen and ink; but when they
were brought, he could not write. A person said,'Let me write for you, sir; tell me what you would
say.'  He replied,'Nothing, but that God is with
us.'  In  the  forenoon  he  said,'I will get up.'
While they were preparing his. clothes he broke out
in a manner which, considering his extreme weakness,
astonished all present, in singing,'I'll praise my Maker while I've breath,
And, when my voice is lost in death,
Praise shall employ my nobler powers;
My days of praise shall ne'er be past,
While life, and thought, and being last,
Or immortality endures!'
" Having got him into his chair, they observed him
change for death. But he, regardless of his dying body,
said, with a weak voice,'Lord, thou givest strength
to those that can speak and to those who cannot.
Speak, Lord, to all our hearts. and let them know
that thou loosest tongues.' He then sung,'To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,
Who sweetly all agree-'
Here his voice failed.' After gasping for breath, he
said,'Now we have done all.' He was then laid in
the bed, from which he rose no more. After resting
a little he called to those that were with him to'pray
and praise.' They kneeled down, and the room
seemed to be filled with the divine presence.  A




I79I.]      Wesley his Ow  Z Historiazn.     459
little after, he said,'Let me be buried in nothing
but what is woolen, and let my corpse be carried
into the chapel.' Then, as if he had done with all
below, he again begged they would pray and praise.
Several friends that were in the house being called
up, they all kneeled down again to prayer, at which
time his fervor of spirit was manifest to every one
present.  But in particular parts of the prayer his
whole soul seemed to be engaged in a manner which
evidently showed how ardently he longed for the full
accomplishment of their united desires. And when
one of the preachers was praying in a very expressive
manner that, if God were about to take away their
father to his eternal rest, he would be pleased to
continue and increase his blessing upon the doctrine
and discipline-which he had long made his servant
the means of propagating and establishing in the
world, such a degree of fervor accompanied his loud
Ametz as was every way expressive of his soul's being
engaged in the answer of the petitions.  On rising
from their knees he took hold of all their hands, and,
with the utmost placidness, saluted them, and said,'Farewell, farewell.'
"A little after, a person coming in, he strove to
speak, but could not. Finding they could not understand him, he paused a little, and then, with all the
remaining strength he had, cried out,'The best of
all is, God is with us;' and soon after, lifting up his
dying arm in token of victory, and raising his feeble
voice with a holy triumph not to be expressed, he
again repeated the heart-reviving words,'The best of
all is, God is with us.' Being told that his brother's
widow- was come, he said,'He giveth his servants




460         Wesley his Own Historian.      [I79I.
rest.' He thanked her as she pressed his hand,
and affectionately endeavored to kiss her.  On his
lips being wetted he said,'We thank thee, O Lord,
for these and all thy mercies; bless the Church and
King, and grant us truth and peace, through Jesus
Christ our Lord, for ever and ever!' At another
time he said,' He causeth his servants to lie down in
peace.' Then pausing a little, he cried,'The clouds
drop fatness!' and soon after,'The Lord is with us,
the God of Jacob is our refuge!' He then called
those present to prayer, and, though he was greatly
exhausted, he appeared still more fervent in spirit.
These exertions were, however, too much'for his
feeble frame; and most of the night following, though
he often attempted to repeat the psalm before mentioned, he could only utter,'I'll praise-I'll praise-'
" On Wednesday morning the closing scene drew
near.  Mr. Bradford, his faithful friend, prayed with
him, and the last words he was heard to articulate
were,'Farewell!'  A few minutes before ten, while
several of his friends were kneeling around his bed,
without a lingering groan, this man of God, this
beloved pastor of thousands, entered into the joy of
his Lord.
"He was in the eighty-eighth year of his age, had
been sixty-five years in the ministry; and the preceding pages will be a lasting memorial of his uncommon zeal, diligence, and usefulness in his Master's
work for more than half a century. His death was
an admirable close to so laborious and useful a life.
"At the desire of many of his friends his corpse
was placed in the new chapel, and remained there the
day before his interment. His face during that time




1791.]      Wesley his Own Historian.       46I
had a heavenly smile upon it, and a beauty which
was admired by all that saw it.
" March the 9th was the day appointed for his
interment. The preachers then in London requested
that Dr. Whitehead should deliver the funeral discourse, and the executors afterward approved of the
appointment. The intention was to carry the corpse
into the chapel, and place it in a raised situation
before the pulpit during the service. But the crowds
which came to see the body while it lay in the coffin,
both in the private house, and especially in the
chapel the day before his funeral, were so great that
his friends were apprehensive of a tumult if they
should adopt the plan first intended. It was therefore resolved the evening before to bury him between
five and six in the morning. Though the time of
notice to his friends was short, and the design itself
was spoken of with great caution, yet a considerable
number of persons attended at that early hour. The
late Rev. Mr. Richardson, who now lies with him in
the same vault, read the funeral service in a manner
that made it peculiarly affecting. When he came
to that part of it,'Forasmuch as it hath pleased
Almighty God to take unto himself the soul of our
dear brother,' etc., he substituted, with the most tender emphasis, the epithet father instead of brother,
which had so powerful an effect on the congregation,
that from silent tears they seemed universally to burst
out into loud weeping.
"The discourse by Dr. Whitehead was delivered
in the chapel at the hour appointed in the forenoon,
to an astonishing multitude of people; am'ong whom
were many ministers of the GosDel. both of the




462         Wesley his Own Historian.       [179r.
Establishment and Dissenters.  The audience was
still and solemn as night, and all seemed to carry
away with them enlarged views of Mr. Wesley's
character, and serious impressions of the importance of religion."- Watson's'Wesley, pp. 285-292.
Extent of Wesley's Ministerial Laborse
"The labors of Mr. Wesley in the work of the
ministry for fifty years together were without precedent. During this period he traveled about four
thousand five hundred miles every year, one year
with another, chiefly on horseback. It had been
impossible for him to accomplish this almost incredible degree of exertion without great punctuality
and care in the management'of his time. He had
stated hours for every purpose, and his only relaxation was a change of employment. For fifty-two
years or upward he generally delivered two, frequently three or four, sermons in a day. But calculating only two sermons a day, and allowing, as a writer
of his life has done, fifty annually for extraordinary
occasions, the whole number of sermons he preached
during this period will be forty thousand five hundred
and sixty.  To these must be added an infinite number of exhortations to the societies after preaching, and
in other occasional meetings, at which he assisted."
- WHatson's Wlesley, page 295.
Number of Preachers and Members at the Time of Wesley's Death.
"Wesley died at the head of a thoroughly organized
host of 550 itinerant preachers, and I40,000 members
of his societies, in the United Kingdom, British North
America, in the United States, and West Indies."Stevens's History of Meth/odism, vol. iii, page 509.




I79I.]         Wesley his Own Historian.                463
Tablet in City Road Chapel,
The  following  is the inscription  on  the  marble
tablet erected  to  his  memory in the  chapel, City
Road:.:atrcx to.ttb Uttmorq
OF THE REV. JOHN WESLEY, M. A.,
SOMETIME FELLOW OF LINCOLN COLLEGE, OXFORD;
A Man in Learning and sincere Piety
Scarcely inferior to any;
In Zeal, Ministerial Labours, and extensive Usefulness,
Superior, perhaps, to all Men,
Since the days of ST. PAUL.
Regardless of Fatigue, personal Danger, and Disgrace,
He went out into the highways and hedges
Calling Sinners to Repentance,
And Publishing the GOSPEL of Peace.
He was the Founder of the Methodist Societies,
And the chief Promoter and Patron
Of the Plan of Itinerant Preaching,
Which he extended through GREAT BRITAIN and IRELAND,
The WEST INDIES, and AMERICA,
With unexampled Success.
He was born the I7th of June, I703;
And died the 2d of March, I791,
In sure and certain hope of Eternal Life,
Through the Atonement and Mediation of a Crucified Saviour.
He was sixty-five Years in the Ministry,
And fifty-two an Itinerant Preacher:
He lived to see, in these KINGDOMS only,
About three hundred Itinerant,
And one thousand Local Preachers,
Raised up from the midst of his own People;
And eighty thousand Persons in the Societies under his care.
His Name will be ever had in grateful Remembrance
By all who rejoice In the universal Spread
Of the Gospel of CHRIST.
Soli Deo Glorica.
[Glory to God alone.]




464                   TWesley his Own Historian.
Methodist Membership by Countries-1870.
TItE following statistics are compiled from  the latest reports at hand. Some
of therm  are sunmaries for 1S6S.
COUNTRIES.                                           -:..   _
UNITED STATES: M. E. Church, (for 1870)........  9,193 11,404 1,367,144
M. E. Church, South...........................  2,133  4,753  571,241
African N1.. Church..........................   1,000o  3,000  375,00()
African MI. E. Zion Church.....................    391  1.42'0  172,000
Evangelical (Methodist) Association..........    475    367   57,226
Methlo(list Protestant..........................     423...   72,000
The Methodist Church.........................    624    444   49,030
Wesleyan Methodist...........................    2.0                 20,000
Free   ethodist.................................    109        20,76
Bible Union....................................
Primitive Methodist...........................          20...     2,00
_    _  15,318 2,691,407
CANADA: Wesleyan Metlodist........2........... 8     250    i4,688
Methodist Episcopal...........................    198    217   20,180
New Connection Methodist....................            90...    8,110
Primitive Methodist.......................              70.....90    7,073
Bible Christians.............................
_   956  100,051
EASTERN BRITISH AMERICA: Wesle yan Methodist                                       162   16,287
WEST INDIES: Wesleyans........................            90       370     43,802
United Methodist..............................           9             1,798
99   45,600
HAYTI: Wesleyan................................                         1      200
ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND: Wesleyan Alethodist..   1,61 1                                        21,80 360,904
Irish Wesleyan Conference....................    22(    690   20,793
Primitive Methodist............................    943 11169   161,229
NeWv Connection Methodist....................          170.   33,09
United Free Church Methodist................    28...   68,092
Bible Christian'Methodist.....................    248...   246,275
Lady Huntingdon or Calvinistic Methodist...                          58,577
WeSleyan Reform  Union.......................           21    276    8,659
Church Methodists in Ireland..................           9,18
3,501  754,782
FRANCE: French Wesleyan Miethodist...........             36...     2,21
Wesleyan Missions.................                       111
Methodist Episcopal..........................            1               62
37    2,389
GERMANY AND SWITZERLAND: 3(1. E. Church....                43      29    6,956
Wesleyan..............................                     1,5;8
Evangelical Association......................           17...    4,774
_ —    62 13,314
SPAIN AND MALTA: Wesleyan Methodist.........                                        2       61
ITALY: Wesleyan Methodist.....................                                      3       70
DENMARK, SWEDEN, AND NORWAY: Meth. Epis'l..                   17   769
INDIA AND CEYLON: Wesleyan Missions..........             33              662
Methodist Episcopal Missions.................    29            32        3
Wesleyan Missions, North and South Ceylon..    31                      1.993,_______________            93     3,392
CHINA: Wesleyan Methodist Missions.........                9...        58
Methodist Episcopal Missions.................           14...    1,514
Methodist Episcopal Church. South, Missions.
United Methodist Free Church Missions......             12   0...;12
New Connection Methodist Missions..........             12...       147
AFRICA: Wesleyan Missions.....................     84           37,751
Liberia Conference Meth. Episcopal Church..              18     32    18, ")
United Methodist Free Church................      3            2,612
103   42,193
AUSTRALIA AND POLYNESIA: Wesl'l Conferences    282  o,000   65,647
Primitive Methodist............................         21,90
United Methodist Free Ch ch................    12...                612
New Connection Methodist....................            12...       147
881   68,310
SOUTH AMERICA............................................      8      171
TURKEY...............................................                              2...
Grand Total....................................................... 20,7F43,741,317